The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major General Willard Stewart Paul (ASN: 0-5616), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding General of the 26th Infantry Division on 8 November 1944, in France. It was necessary for the 26th Infantry Division to effect a river crossing over the ***** River at *****, France, on 8 November 1944, during the general offensive of the THIRD United States Army in Lorraine, France. The attack of the Division was launched shortly before daylight and by dawn the 101st Infantry Regiment, attacking on the right of the Division, had over-run the local defenses of the town of *****, capturing the large bridge intact. Information was received that the advance of the 101st Infantry Regiment was slowed down due to the fact that the bridge was commanded by direct fire from enemy 88-mm. guns. Major General Paul immediately proceeded to the bridge site, using a road which was under enemy observed fire. Upon finding that the bridge was intact, but was under German observation from the hills across the river from which direct fire was being placed upon the personnel exposing themselves at the bridge, General Paul inspired his troops to infiltrate across the bridge without undue casualties. Having accomplished this he then returned across the open area, the vehicle in which he was riding being the target for at least six well-aimed shots from high-velocity weapons. With the information obtained by General Paul as to the locations of the hostile artillery the Division Artillery was enable to silence these enemy weapons effectively. The presence of General Paul at this most critical and dangerous undertaking resulted in the successful river crossing along the entire front of his division which was reflected in the capture of over 600 prisoners and an advance of over two miles into the hostile position. Major General Paul’s inspiring leadership, disregard for personal safety, and loyal devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.