The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant William I. Wagoner (ASN: 20725405), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 11 September 1944. During the initial phase of the assault crossing of the **** River by units of the 2d Battalion, Sergeant Wagoner led his squad across the river in the face of heavy enemy fire of all types, deployed his men in defensive positions, then, in order to establish communications with elements on the west bank of the river, swam across the river and secured a radio. He made a total of six crossings of the river, keeping the battalion commander well informed of the situation. His gallant and fearless actions in maintaining constant contact with troops on the west bank of the river, and his skillful deployment of his squad under heavy fire, was a large factor in the successful crossing of other units of the battalion, and in the subsequent capture of ****. 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 and the United States Army.