The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) William F. Pittman (ASN: 0-1313919), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 20 May 1951, in the vicinity of Sonshon, Korea. On that day his company was deployed in a defensive perimeter on a hill. At approximately 0600 hours the company was subjected to a sudden fanatical attack by a numerically superior enemy force. Captain Pittman immediately, and with complete disregard for his own safety, moved about to each defensive position, directing the fire of his men and speaking words of encouragement. Time after time during the enemy attacks he exposed himself, moving about continually to direct well-placed fire upon the enemy and encourage his men to hold their positions. Several times it seemed as though they would have to withdraw from this vital point due to lack of ammunition, but through the leadership of Captain Pittman, heavy casualties were inflicted and the onslaught halted. The outstanding leadership and courage displayed by Captain Pittman was an inspiration to all the men in his company and was greatly responsible for the courageous stand made by his company and reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.