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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) William Edward Moment (ASN: 0-2208120), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, on 16 July 1950, near the Kum River, Korea. During the withdrawal of the Regiment from positions in the vicinity of the river, a group of about 15 soldiers became separated from their organization. Second Lieutenant Moment organized the group and began leading them to the new positions. During the march they encountered two enemy machineguns in position. When they opened fire on the group, Second Lieutenant Moment advanced and silenced both guns by throwing grenades into their positions. The movement was resumed and another automatic weapon was encountered. He silenced this one by automatic rifle fire. After the river had been crossed and the new positions nearly reached, the group was ambushed by enemy soldiers firing submachine guns. Again defying the enemy fire, Second Lieutenant Moment exposed himself and threw grenades at the enemy. By constantly exposing himself to hostile fire, often at extremely short range, Second Lieutenant Moment succeeded in leading a group of men in a difficult retrograde movement. His coolness, courage and excellent leadership made the movement of this group of disorganized men possible. He brought great credit to himself and to the military service.