The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class William W. Lam (ASN: US-55058612), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 4 July 1951, near Chich-on, Korea, Company B, 1st Battalion, occupying defensive positions on Hill 586, was suddenly attacked by an overwhelming enemy force. Private Lam, an assistant machine gunner attached to the First Platoon, remained at his weapon and assisted the gunner in pouring heavy fire upon the foe in their fanatical assault. When the hard-pressed platoon was forced to withdraw to more tenable positions, Private Lam volunteered to remain as rear guard and cover the displacement. Although wounded shortly thereafter by a bursting grenade, he continued his gallant efforts until the platoon had completed its withdrawal. Having successfully completed his mission, he was moving to rejoin his comrades when mortally wounded by enemy fire. The complete devotion to duty displayed by Private Lam reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.