The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) William Bayles Cawthorne (ASN: 0-5315457), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations on 30 June 1964, in the Republic of Vietnam. Acting as an Aircraft Commander of a UH-1B aircraft of the 52d Aviation Battalion, Lieutenant Cawthorne displayed fortitude, perseverance, and professional skill while providing armed escort for helicopters participating in a re-supply mission in support of the ground forces of the Republic of Vietnam. When the helicopters became the target of sporadic small arms fire, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft close to the terrain to cover the departure of the cargo helicopters from the landing zone. Although he sustained a critical bullet wound as his aircraft crashed into rugged terrain, he succeeded in freeing himself from the demolished aircraft. Despite his own mortal wounds, he continued his courageous efforts by successfully evacuating the injured pilot moments before the aircraft was engulfed in flames. His bravery, determination, and unselfish actions assisted the Vietnamese forces in accomplishing their objectives and saved the life of a fellow soldier at the sacrifice of his own. Lieutenant Cawthorne’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects credit upon himself and the military service.