The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Herschel T. Wilhelm (MCSN: 454973), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conscious gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a tank Commander of the First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 14 June 1945. During an important coordinated tank/infantry attack against a heavily fortified enemy position, Sergeant Wilhelm was directing the fire of a flame thrower tank by radio from his own tank when communications failed. Instantly realizing that advancing friendly troops were greatly imperiled by uncontrolled fire from this tank, he courageously dismounted from his vehicle and ran forward and climbed upon the rear of the turret of the flame thrower tank. Although completely exposed to heavy hostile fire, he boldly remained in this position and continued to adjust fire on the Japanese stronghold until it was destroyed. By his aggressive and prompt action at a critical time, Sergeant Wilhelm rendered invaluable assistance in completing a difficult mission. His courage throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.