The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) William Alex Cunningham, III (ASN: 0-19579), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to May 1943. Although painfully wounded while directing his battalion’s assault upon the enemy, Colonel Cunningham continued his brilliant leadership and, by his personal example and initiative, maintained his unit’s high morale and fighting spirit. His courage and devotion to duty exemplified the highest traditions of the military service.