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 W. Privett (ASN: 0-60971), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 1 September 1950 in the vicinity of Tongan-ni, Korea. On that date the rifle platoon commanded by Lieutenant Privett was attacked from the front and right flank by a numerically superior enemy force. The enemy subjected the platoon’s position to intense artillery, mortar, and self-propelled gun fire. Disregarding the heavy hostile fire raking his perimeter, he left his fox-hone and moved continually among his men, encouraging them to hold fast and setting an example of bravery under fire. The enemy, advancing in great strength, succeeded in reaching high ground overlooking his position and threatened the security of the platoon’s right flank. With complete indifference for his personal safety, he dashed to the threatened flank, gathering members of other squads on the way. Organizing his men, he led them in a daring counterattack which overran the enemy and forced them to withdraw from the high ground. Consolidating the position, he left an outpost to maintain it and made his way back to the remainder of the platoon. For four hours, he held fast against heavy losses. His heroic stand disrupted the general offensive of the enemy in that sector and enabled the reinforced rifle battalion to withdraw from an untenable position. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Privett reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.