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 Willie W. Pollard (ASN: 33633850), 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 19 March 1945 in Germany. On the night of 19 March 1945, at Kusel, Germany, Private First Class Pollard observed the approach of several vehicles whose appearance and manner of operation, unnoticed by others, caused him to suspect that they contained enemy troops. Acting with great presence of mind, he fearlessly drove his truck across the path of the vehicles, blocking their advance. He and his assistant then boldly advanced with their submachine guns and demanded the surrender of the enemy troops discovered in the vehicles. After subduing some who resisted, one hundred and fifty prisoners were taken. The prompt captured of these troops prevented the development of a serious threat in the rear of friendly forces. The bravery, alertness, and fearless devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Pollard were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.