The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William E. Pittman, United States Army, for gallantry in action on Angaur Island, Palau Group, on 23 September 1944 while serving as a rifleman with Company B, 322d Infantry Regiment, 81st Infantry Division. Private Pittman was participating with his company in an attack over rough terrain when it received such intense machinegun, rifle, and grenade fire that it was forced to withdraw. The platoon leader re-entered the area, and Private Pittman and a sergeant voluntarily followed him. When the officer fell mortally wounded, Private Pittman and the sergeant attempted to evacuate him. In attempting to aid the officer the sergeant was also wounded. Realizing that further evacuation of the platoon leader was useless and that the sergeant was able to care for himself, Private Pittman went to the aid of his Company Commander who had been seriously wounded. Private Pittman culminated his valorous act when he successfully assisted in the evacuation of his Company Commander while under heavy enemy fire. The gallant actions of Private Pittman in aiding others without regard for his personal safety were a source of inspiration to all members of his company and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.