The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William M. Cabell, Jr. (ASN: RA-15280414), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 30 November 1950 in the vicinity of Yongducham, Korea. On that date elements of his battalion were subjected to a fierce enemy attack and were forced to withdraw. Private Cabell volunteered to remain behind to cover the withdrawal. Taking up a position on a path which was the only possible route of advance for the enemy, he held them off by rifle fire. When enemy soldiers penetrated to within a few feet of him he hurled grenades at them, forcing them back. Fighting intrepidly, he continued his rear guard action, until his ammunition was exhausted, at which time he withdrew. During this engagement he killed or wounded 15 enemy soldiers. His valiant action enabled the battalion elements to withdraw with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry displayed on this occasion by Private Cabell reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.