The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) William S. Bradford (ASN: 0-183727), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in France, on 15 June 1944. While observing the forward movement of his battalion, a portion of his troops were suddenly fired upon by friendly troops. Not knowing that the fire was being received from friendly sources it was immediately returned. From his observation post, Lieutenant Colonel Bradford immediately spotted this action, fearlessly left his position, advanced across an open field and ordered all troops to cease firing. The immediate cessation of this action saved many lives. This courageous action, in which he unhesitatingly placed the safety and lives of his men above his own, reflect high credit on Lieutenant Colonel Bradford and the Armed Forces of the United States.