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 Private First Class William Van Milligan, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 142d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 21 March 1945 in Germany. Upon reaching a position approximately 40 yards from the Siegfried Line pillbox which was its objective, Private First Class Van Milligan’s squad was halted by intense enemy automatic weapons fire from the fortification and, a few moments later, was subjected to a heavy artillery barrage. Realizing the necessity for immediate action, Private First Class Van Milligan, a rifleman, stood up and, braving hostile fire, ran forward to a position beside the pillbox. He swiftly hurled two grenades through a small opening in the fortification, wounding several Germans and forcing all sixteen occupants to surrender. His prompt and valiant action reduced an enemy strongpoint and provided his comrades with a place of cover during the artillery barrage. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.