The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private William D. Cumpston (ASN: 13089796), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 330th Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 July 1944, near ****, France. In the course of the advance of his company toward its objective, Private Cumpston volunteered to crawl forward and attempt to halt an advancing enemy tank. In utter disregard of heavy fire from the machine guns on the tank and of small arms, he succeeded in getting within firing range. With audacious deliberation he took aim and with two well directed rockets demobilized the tank. By this courageous action the enemy defenses were so weakened that the advance of the company was materially hastened. Private Cumpston’s resolute fortitude and conspicuous courage reflect great credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the military service.