The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William Fortier (ASN: ER-12237939), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 23 June 1951, Company B led the 1st Battalion in an attack on Hill 717, near Sobang-san, Korea and captured it after a brief skirmish with the enemy. After the company had consolidated its newly-won positions, the Second Platoon was dispatched to contact Company A, 1st Battalion, entrenched on an adjoining ridge. Shortly after the unit moved out, the enemy sharply counterattacked Hill 717 and in the ensuing engagement the third squad of the Second Platoon became trapped in a draw between the two knolls. Fiercely fighting to rejoin its unit, the squad, under Corporal Fortier’s able direction, made a hectic but successful withdrawal to company positions. Corporal Fortier, seeing a wounded comrade, remained in the area, giving him first aid and safely evacuating him to safety, even though coming in close contact with the enemy several times. Later, the enemy again assaulted the friendly lines and despite the severe hostile fire, Corporal Fortier, exposed himself time and time again, to throw grenades and use any weapon within reach, contributing greatly in stalling the enemy advance. Finally wounded by a bursting grenade, he refused evacuation and with four comrades remained behind to harass the foe when the company was forced to abandon its positions. Not until the unit had safely withdrawn, did he leave his dangerous location on the embattled hill. Corporal Fortier’s outstanding gallantry and exemplary fortitude reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.