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 (Infantry) William Norman Holm (ASN: 0-23282), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 7 January 1945, at ****, Belgium. Having previously captured the town of **** in a daring attack with sixteen men, Major Holm, then Executive Officer, 551st Parachute Infantry Battalion, assumed command of the battalion during the peak of the assault on ****, when the battalion commander was killed and officer casualties were heavy. Stiff enemy resistance and intense artillery concentrations had reduced the battalion to less than 100 effectives. With utter calmness and complete indifference to the heavy fire, Major Holm reorganized the men who were exhausted from three days of heavy fighting in bitter cold weather. His cool, courageous leadership in the face of overwhelming odds served as an inspiring example to the tired men. He personally directed the attack on the town, effecting its capture along with 250 prisoners after approximately 200 of the enemy had been killed. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Holm, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.