The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William M. Ditzhazy (ASN: 0-1882304), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Service Company [Company L], 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 17 March 1953 in the vicinity of Majon-ni, North Korea. Early on the morning of that date, the enemy launched a mass attack against friendly Main Battle Positions, and by numerical superiority, succeeded in pressing the assault as far as friendly supporting units. Lieutenant Ditzhazy, to better estimate the situation, rushed forward of the command post and was immediately engaged by an enemy group in a brief fire fight. Killing two and wounding another of his attackers, he then completed his reconnaissance and returned to the command post which was now under heavy enemy fire. Taking up an exposed position in the doorway, he aggressively engaged the hostile force until an exploding enemy grenade rendered him unconscious. After receiving first aid and regaining consciousness, Lieutenant Ditzhazy refused evacuation and again took up the fight. Taking command of a relief group that had arrived at the scene of action, he led the small force in a sweep of the area. During one crucial point in the fierce engagement that ensued, Lieutenant Ditzhazy, with complete disregard for personal safety, rushed an enemy occupied bunker that had temporarily halted his group and neutralized it with grenades and pistol fire. This action alone accounted for fifteen enemy dead. Working further along the line, he discovered three friendly casualties lying helplessly in a mine field. Summoning aid from his men, Lieutenant Ditzhazy, although suffering from the painful wounds previously inflicted, led a small group out into the fire swept area and evacuated the injured men to a place of comparative safety. Only after all friendly positions were secured did he cease his aggressive action and show any concern for his own condition. His courage and outstanding leadership were instrumental in repulsing the enemy attack and insured the safe evacuation of several friendly casualties. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Ditzhazy reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.