The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) William L. Nichols (ASN: 0-58987), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 2 September 1950 in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea. On that date the platoon commanded by Lieutenant Nichols was subjected to a fierce enemy attack supported by mortar, tank, automatic weapons and small arms fire. During the initial phases of the attack he ordered and executed an orderly withdrawal to new defensive positions. While the machine guns were being moved to the new platoon position he remained behind covering the crews’ withdrawal withy rifle grenades. He then assumed a position forward of his platoon and directed their defensive fire. In an attempt to neutralize an enemy machinegun he was severely wounded. While waiting to be evacuated he continued to give his platoon directions. His heroism and superior leadership enabled his platoon to repel the enemy attack and accomplish its mission. The gallantry and high devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Nichols reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.