The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class William F. Godfrey (MCSN: 839919), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Scout serving with the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Peleliu, Palau Islands on 15 and 16 September 1944. Courageous and alert during an enemy tank-led counterattack, Private First Class Godfrey cautiously waited until the enemy was within ten yards of his position then, boldly exposing himself to intense enemy fire, aimed his automatic weapon with deadly accuracy and succeeded in killing two Japanese soldiers riding on top of the tank. On the following day during an attack across 1400 yards of a mortar, machine-gun and artillery swept airfield, Private First Class Godfrey gallantly braved the withering barrage to assist in directing friendly tank fire against Japanese pillboxes which were inflicting casualties to our troops, but was himself mortally wounded while performing his hazardous task. His exceptional fortitude, valiant fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to the fulfillment of a vital mission reflect great credit upon Private First Class Godfrey and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.