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 Captain (Infantry) William M. Steele, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 4 and 5 April 1970 while serving as an Advisor with the 2d Ranger Group Command Post, Fire Support Base TANGO, Dak Sut District, Kontum Province, Republic of Vietnam. On these dates the firebase was attacked with rockets, mortars, and small arms and then by enemy ground forces, at one time penetrating the perimeter. During each of these ground attacks Captain Steele left the safety of his command bunker and moved to exposed positions in order to direct supporting gunships on the enemy forces. With complete disregard for his own safety, he moved from position to position on the perimeter to insure that maximum fire was directed on the attacking enemy. On several occasions rocket rounds landed within a few feet of his position, but he continued to direct his strobe light in order that the gunships could accurately plot the friendly position. His actions throughout the night were instrumental in the successful defense of the fire base and the repulsion of the enemy ground attacks, causing the enemy to suffer heavy casualties. Captain Steele’s conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.