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 William R. Blake (ASN: 36979441), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 222d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 15 March 1945 in Hardt Mountains, France. When two members of his company were wounded and left in an exposed position, Private Blake volunteered to attempt their evacuation. To accomplish his mission it was necessary for him to go through heavy enemy small-arms and artillery fire for a distance of 200 yards and carry the men one at a time uphill to a place of safety. Through his outstanding courage and selfless determination, Private Blake saved the lives of two of his comrades.