The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Billy H. Fox, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 12 March 1944. Private Fox demonstrated outstanding initiative, aggressiveness and courage during a determined attack on Japanese positions on Hill 700. By boldly crawling to within a few yards of an enemy pillbox and keeping the occupants so busy answering the steady stream of bullets he poured at them with his automatic rifle, Private Fox aided materially in the eventual advance of other members of his company. He then helped mop up the remaining enemy troops who resisted stubbornly until all were killed. 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.