The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Corporal Donald W. Willard (MCSN: 588975), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of an Infantry Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Sachon, Korea. On 12 August 1950, Corporal Willard was participating in an attack when elements of the United Nations force were pinned down by enemy automatic weapons fire from both flanks. When the radios of the tank liaison party in which he was serving were damaged beyond repair, Corporal Willard voluntarily proceeded some 200 yards under heavy enemy fire to join the forward elements. Upon arrival at the scene, Corporal Willard administered first aid to a wounded comrade and then, employing the fallen man’s automatic weapon, he constantly exposed himself to draw enemy fire in an effort to locate the hidden machine guns. Corporal Willard, through his complete disregard for his own safety, succeeded in destroying the hostile weapons and enabled the allied force to advance. The gallantry exhibited by Corporal Willard on this occasion reflects great credit on himself and the military service.