The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Willie B. Sturgeon (ASN: RA-14338277), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, near Osan, Korea on 5 July 1950. The 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry, was in a defensive positions which was being attacked by thirty-two enemy tanks, artillery, mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire. Private First Class Sturgeon distinguished himself by volunteering to fire a bazooka singled handed with which he destroyed one enemy tank and damaged five others while annihilating their crews. It was necessary for Private First Class Sturgeon to leave his position and expose himself to enemy fire in order to secure additional ammunition and a new bazooka. He immediately returned to a firing position and was pinned down by fire from other thanks. Being unable to join his unit he remained behind the enemy lines one day before he could rejoin. The outstanding courage and determination to destroy the enemy shown by Private First Class Willie B. Sturgeon reflects the highest credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.