The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) William J. Bryan (ASN: 0-294945), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 18 March 1945, in the vicinity of Ensheim, Germany. Lieutenant Colonel Bryan displayed outstanding courage and leadership in coordinating the units under his command in their assault on the Seigfried line. Time after time he exposed himself under heavy concentrations of artillery fire in order to control the operations of his subordinate units. His utter disregard for personal safety while in front line units contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the mission of his regiment and merited the praise of all the officers and men under his command. The morale of the troops was greatly enhanced by Lieutenant Colonel Bryan’s presence while his troops were subjected to intense artillery and sniper fire. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.