The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) William H. Gipson (ASN: 0-980892), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Battery B, 37th Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 20 March 1951, in the vicinity of Ussolchi, Korea. On that date Lieutenant Gipson was an artillery observer on a combat patrol with Company G, 38th Infantry Regiment. Throughout the morning only light enemy resistance was met. Later, resistance increased and Lieutenant Gipson called for artillery support. Selecting the most advantageous yet most dangerous position, he was constantly exposed to enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire, as he courageously directed the artillery fire upon the enemy. From his exposed position Lieutenant Gipson directed such accurate fire that the company was able to advance without casualties. When orders were given to return to the patrol base, Lieutenant Gipson voluntarily remained behind in an exposed position and delayed the enemy as the company withdrew. The accurate direction of fire by Lieutenant Gipson caused heavy casualties to be inflicted upon the enemy and prevented casualties to the company. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Gipson reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.