Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William W. Lyons (ASN: RA-27503652), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 18 May 1951 in the vicinity of Pungchon-ni, Korea. During a fierce enemy attack the wire line to the battalion observation post was destroyed and the artillery observer, who was relaying messages to the rear, no longer could supply artillery support. Private Lyons voluntarily left his covered position and went out into the intense enemy fire and restrung the line, restoring vital communications with the observation post and allowing the resumption of supporting artillery fire. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Lyons reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 30, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 656 (1951)

    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 W. Lyons (ASN: RA-27503652), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 30 July 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date during an assault to secure dominating terrain features, the unit met heavy enemy resistance, halting its advance. Private Lyons assuming command of his squad after the leader was wounded, crawled to within a few yards from an enemy machine gun emplacement and kept the crew pinned down with rifle fire while his squad advanced. When his weapon failed to function, Private Lyons threw a grenade into the emplacement, completely destroying it and killing its crew. As a result of his courageous actions, his unit was able to continue in the advance and successfully secure its objective. The gallantry and outstanding leadership displayed by Private Lyons on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.