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), [then First Lieutenant] William A. Whichard (ASN: 0-65212), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 1 July 1951, Company I moved forward to launch an attack on Hill 717, near Sobang-san, Korea. As the unit advanced, the lead platoon, under Captain Whichard’s command, was sharply attacked by an enemy rifle company, which subjected the platoon to a severe hail of small arms fire and a supporting mortar barrage. To offset this serious threat to his unit’s advance, Captain Whichard moved quickly and decisively through the bullet-spattered area, locating his troops in advantageous firing positions and directing their fire upon the enemy. He thus formed a hasty but firm line of defense which, guided by his fearless example, contained and repulsed several enemy thrusts. After the pressing danger of each charge subsided, Captain Whichard, revealed to hostile observation and fire, personally organized litter teams and led them to the rear as they evacuated the wounded. The courage and inspirational gallantry exhibited by Captain Whichard on this occasion reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.