The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Cavalry) William F. Beaty (ASN: 0-22872), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of Hunage, Belgium, on 22 January 1945. The task force under Major Beaty’s command came under heavy hostile fire in the initial phase of its attack on Hunage. When his own tank was hit and put out of action Major Beaty, after ascertaining that his crew was unhurt and under cover, moved across the fire-swept field to another tank and continued to direct the operations of his command. The objectives seized, after hard fighting that cost the enemy high losses in men and material, Major Beaty dismounted from his tank and braved intense artillery to reorganize his troops and set up defenses of the area. Major Beaty’s inspiring courage and able leadership reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Silver Star to Major (Cavalry) William F. Beaty (ASN: 0-22872), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of Ludwigslust, Germany, on 2 May 1945. Major Beaty commanded his task force in a daring move on the strategic and well-defended town of Ludwigslust. Arriving in the area well ahead of the other two task forces that were supposed to attack with him, Major Beaty obtained permission to carry out the operation immediately with only the troops of his command. Moving boldly at the head of his column Major Beaty led it in a swift assault on the town and its numerous defenders. His brilliant employment of men and armor so disorganized the Germans that they quickly surrendered. By his courageous and highly effective action Major Beaty seized the town without the bitter fight that had been anticipated and won important objectives without loss of men or equipment. Major Beaty’s gallant leadership and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.