The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William F. Elder (MCSN: 2014043), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Radio Operator for an artillery forward observer team attached to Company A, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, in the Republic of Vietnam. On 9 September 1965, Company A was suddenly subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons, recoilless rifle and mortar fire delivered by insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces. Upon moving to a vantage point from which to direct fire on the Viet Cong positions, both the scout observer and the leader of the forward observer team were wounded, whereupon Corporal Elder unhesitatingly exposed himself in a determined effort to aid his wounded comrades. As he approached them, he was also painfully wounded. Boldly persisting in his rescue attempt despite the risk to his own life, he succeeded, with the aid of a Corpsman, in moving the scout observer to a position of safety. Ignoring his painful wounds, he resumed the operation of his radio, and resolutely continued to perform his vital communications function in the provision of supporting artillery fire. This fire support proved to be a highly effective element in disrupting the Viet Cong attack and inflicting heavy casualties upon them. He selflessly remained at his post until ordered by his team leader to be evacuated. By his courage and selflessly inspired actions and exemplary devotion to duty, Corporal Elder upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.