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 F. Nally (ASN: 35315660), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 2 and 14 September 1944 in France. On 2 September 1944, the battalion in which Staff Sergeant Nally served was ambushed by the enemy. Staff Sergeant Nally and two companions under direct observation and fire from enemy tanks, unloaded mortars and ammunition from the weapons carrier and then placed the mortars in action. When the rifle companies sustained officer casualties, Staff Sergeant Nally immediately assumed command and organized a defense so that the mortars could bring effective fire on the enemy. This aggressive action was responsible for forcing the enemy to withdraw. On 14 September 1944, during an engagement with the enemy Staff Sergeant Nally was wounded. Despite his painful injuries he continued under heavy enemy fire to reach a wounded officer and successfully evacuate him. The bravery, aggressive leadership, and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Nally were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.