The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] William H. Lyon (ASN: US-55058824), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 October 1951 in the vicinity of Mundung-ni, Korea. On that date, Sergeant Lyon, serving as a mortar forward observer was attached to a friendly rifle company, attacking vital enemy-held positions on Hill 1005. While moving across a rice paddy, the advancing friendly troops were pinned down by a barrage of enemy mortar and automatic-weapons fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Lyon repeatedly moved from one position to another under direct fire of hostile machine guns, in order to accurately adjust and direct mortar fire into the enemy positions. Despite the risk involved, he remained at his post, directing friendly fire upon the hostile forces. This quick action resulted in the elimination of vital enemy positions, thus permitting the friendly unit to continue the advance and to successfully secure its objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Lyon reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.