The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) William M. Moriarty (ASN: 0-1934950), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 18 July 1953 in the vicinity of Yugong-Ni, North Korea. After approximate forty-five minutes of intense preliminary shelling, the enemy stormed up the slopes at the positions of the first platoon of Company L. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Moriarty moved from position to position, checking his men and directing defensive operations. Showing no concern for the savage artillery and mortar fire which blanketed the area, he inspired his men by his own lack of fear. Even when wounded, he continued to direct defensive actions of his men. Although greatly outnumbered, the men of the first platoon, under the brave leadership of Lieutenant Moriarty, held firm and inflicted great losses upon the enemy. The outstanding devotion to duty and gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Moriarty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.