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 E. Drews, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, from 19 July to 29 July 1943. During combat operations when his platoon was subjected to intense enemy machine gun and sniper fire Lieutenant Drews was wounded in the left shoulder. Declining evacuation he aggressively reorganized his platoon and supervised the removal to safety of other wounded personnel. On 29 July, in leading his platoon in the defense of a ration dump, Lieutenant Drews as shot through the left foot three times. Lying wounded under fire and unable to move, he nevertheless continued to issue orders and maintained control of his men until the defense dispositions were successfully completed. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.