The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] William F. Tracey (ASN: 31371966), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 63d Reconnaissance Troop, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 14 April 1945, in the vicinity of Ohringen, Germany. Sergeant Tracey, at the risk of his life, returned through enemy fire to a burning vehicle that was loaded with ammunition, leaking gasoline, and which was drawing artillery fire to adjacent infantry positions. Sergeant Tracey entered the vehicle, drove it out of artillery range, and away from infantry positions. The bravery and outstanding devotion to duty of Sergeant Tracey, under hazardous conditions, reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the Armed Forces of the United States.