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 D. Roach (ASN: RA-12348228), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 and 3 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On these dates the platoon of which Sergeant Roach was a member had infiltrated the enemy lines and was encircled by a large enemy force. Immediately, the enemy launched the first of a series of fanatical assaults, attempting to engulf the encircled platoon. In the ensuing action, Sergeant Roach was painfully wounded by enemy grenade fragments but, realizing that his unit was suffering great casualties, he refused to be evacuated. He remained with his unit and assisted in repelling the numerous enemy attacks, inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy until friendly reinforcements arrived. His courageous actions and loyal devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Roach on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.