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 (Coast Artillery Corps) William Harris Ball (ASN: 0-18984), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 92d Coast Artillery Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against the enemy at Olongapo, Philippine Islands, from 26 to 29 December 1941. Major Ball discovered two 155-mm. guns that had been abandoned in the town in the belief that they could not be moved over the steep, narrow, and tortuous road leading therefrom. Using an old dilapidated tractor, he moved the two guns into Bataan; and after ascertaining where the breach blocks had been thrown into Olongapo Bay he directed their recovery through the repeated efforts f divers. Due to the initiative and persistence of Major Ball, these needed weapons were saved for use in defense of Bataan. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Ball, 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.