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 Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) William S. Jordan (ASN: 0-524062), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy from 11 October 1951 to 13 October 1951 in the vicinity of Sum-myon, North Korea. During that period, Captain Jordan was in command of an Infantry company whose mission was to attack and secure a vital enemy held position on Hill 851. As the friendly unit neared its Line of Departure, Captain Jordan observed that an attack by a determined numerically superior hostile force was being launched against the right flank. This initial enemy assault was successful in cutting off a portion of the troops from the main body. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Captain Jordan, with complete disregard for personal safety, moved out into the fire swept area in order to direct the unit and repulse the enemy. His own unit then moved toward their objective, but after advancing approximately 30 yards was momentarily halted, due to the intense enemy mortar and artillery fire, and given orders to dig in and hold. Constantly exposing himself to direct enemy observation and fire, Captain Jordan moved from position to position, contacting other friendly units and coordinating their movements. He then led elements of all the friendly units in a final assault on the heavily fortified enemy held hill and successfully secured the objective. The gallantry in action and consummate devotion to duty displayed by Captain Jordan reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) William S. Jordan (ASN: 0-524062), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 20 September 1951 in the vicinity of Samtae-dong, Korea. On this date, Captain Jordan was leading his company in an assault on a strongly fortified enemy-held hill. During the ensuing action, the enemy launched a determined concentration of mortar, automatic weapons, and small arms fire upon the assaulting elements, inflicting numerous casualties and highly disorganizing the friendly unit. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Captain Jordan, with complete disregard for his personal safety, left his position and crossed the fire-swept area to reorganize his unit. While leading his men in the attack, Captain Jordan was painfully wounded but refused to be evacuated and continued leading his force. Inspired by his fearless and aggressive leadership, his men completely routed the enemy from his position. The gallantry in action displayed by Captain Jordan on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.