The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] William S. Perdue (ASN: 39117366), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. When his company commander was wounded in the leg while making a reconnaissance near the town of Philippine on 25 April 1945, Sergeant Perdue voluntarily dashed through enemy fire to drag the officer to the safety of a covered position from which he could be evacuated. Although wounded slightly while dragging the helpless officer from his exposed position, Sergeant Perdue returned to his original position beyond the front lines, skillfully directed effective mortar fire and two hours later joined in his company’s successful attack against the strong enemy position. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.