Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William J. Dwyer (MCSN: 341278), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Group Leader of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 1 March 1945. When intense hostile machine-gun and sniper fire halted the advance of his platoon, Corporal Dwyer crawled thirty yards under the fire of an enemy machine gun to aid a wounded Marine. After giving first aid to the wounded man, he worked his way toward the well-concealed enemy position and, courageously exposing himself to the intense fire, hurled grenades which silenced the Japanese position and enabled his platoon to renew the attack and seize the objective. His aggressive spirit and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    1st Parachute Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marine Parachute Regiment

    Division:

    I Marine Amphibious Force

    Action Date:

    January 1, 1944
    Commander South Pacific: Serial 4945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Private First Class William J. Dwyer (MCSN: 341278), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Parachute Battalion, First Marine Parachute Regiment, First Marine Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces east of the Torokina River, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 1 January 1944. Leaving a position of comparative safety, Private First Class Dwyer ran through heavy hostile fire, along with another Marine, and reached a spot where his wounded squad leader lay. After carrying the wounded man to an area where first aid could be administered, he took immediate charge of his squad and led it brilliantly throughout the remaining action. By his courage, outstanding leadership and steadfast devotion to duty throughout, Private First Class Dwyer upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.