The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William J. Perkins (ASN: US-56063893), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 11 October 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Company E was the reserve company in a battalion attack on Hill 200. During the attack, Company E was ordered to assault the hill with one platoon to relieve the pressure on a friendly rifle company defending the south slope of the hill. Corporal Perkins, leading his squad in the assault, was seriously wounded by grenade fire. Refusing medical aid, he continued with the charge, shouting words of encouragement and inspiring his men by his courageous actions. Traversing areas under intense enemy mortar and small arms fire, Corporal Perkins, with complete disregard for personal safety, led his squad in the attainment of the objective inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy. His courageous actions, skillful leadership and grim determination were important factors in the success of the mission. The devotion to duty and gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Perkins reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.