The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant William D. Cox (ASN: RA-14277674), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 2d Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. During an attack by a large hostile force on 27 November 1950, near Ipsok, Korea, the leader of the platoon with which Master Sergeant Cox was serving was seriously wounded. Taking charge of the platoon, he deployed his men in defensive positions. He then manned a .50 caliber machine gun mounted on a tank and delivered devastating fire on the enemy until he was thrown from the tank and wounded by a grenade. Declining evacuation, he reorganized his platoon and again directed defense of the area. Repeatedly exposing himself to the concerted fire, he moved among his men to point out targets and distributed ammunition. Master Sergeant Cox’s indomitable courage, exemplary leadership and unflagging devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.