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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private William D. Cumpston (ASN: 13089796), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 330th Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 10 July 1944, near ****, France. When furious machine gun fire from an enemy tank pinned down his company, Private Cumpston heroically shouldered a rocket launcher and, taking four rounds of ammunition, crawled towards the tank. When he succeeded in getting within 25 yards of it, with fearless determination, despite being subjected to bitter automatic weapons fire, he hit the tank with four well-directed shots and knocked it out of action. Private Cumpston’s grim determination, his fighting spirit, and prowess in arms are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private

    Regiment:

    330th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    83d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 8, 1944
    Headquarters, 83d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 28 (August 22, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private William D. Cumpston (ASN: 13089796), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 330th Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 July 1944, near ****, France. In the course of the advance of his company toward its objective, Private Cumpston volunteered to crawl forward and attempt to halt an advancing enemy tank. In utter disregard of heavy fire from the machine guns on the tank and of small arms, he succeeded in getting within firing range. With audacious deliberation he took aim and with two well directed rockets demobilized the tank. By this courageous action the enemy defenses were so weakened that the advance of the company was materially hastened. Private Cumpston’s resolute fortitude and conspicuous courage reflect great credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the military service.