The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant William F. Blatner (ASN: 20407188), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 21 January 1945, in the vicinity of Ostheim, France. Sergeant Blatner, accompanied by two other men went to the assistance of a wounded soldier in the face of intense enemy rifle, machine gun, and artillery fire, removing him to safety. After rescuing the wounded soldier, he remained in the area directing artillery fire. He was seriously injured but continued to direct friendly artillery fire, thus materially aiding in the breaking-up of an enemy combat patrol. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.