The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Van W. Williams, Jr. (MCSN: 311742), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands on 20 June 1944. Braving the terrific fire of a Japanese counter battery attack, Corporal Williams unhesitatingly went forward and valiantly assisted in extinguishing an artillery ammunition dump fire which threatened further vital stores at his position. Mortally wounded while carrying out his heroic action, Corporal Williams was instrumental in saving numerous lives and vast supplies of vital ammunition and his resolute initiative, outstanding courage and unswerving devotion to duty at the risk of his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.