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 (Infantry) William F. Ligon, Jr. (ASN: 0-2207068), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 30 May 1951, in the vicinity of Kosa-ri, Korea. On that date Company L was on patrol, proceeding along a muddy road to investigate some burning vehicles. Suddenly the company was subjected to heavy enemy fire from well concealed positions along a ridge overlooking the road. Lieutenant Ligon, with complete disregard for his own safety, remained exposed to the withering enemy fire and personally supervised the withdrawal of troops, directing the placing of machine guns. He resolutely gathered the scattered men and organized them into an effective combat unit, placing them in position to deliver fire on the enemy. He then personally manned a machine gun to cover the evacuation of the wounded. The gallantry and inspiring leadership displayed by Lieutenant Ligon reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.