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 (Armor) William D. Duncan (ASN: 0-330647), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division on 2 September 1944, in France. Colonel Duncan was serving as Commanding Officer of an Armored Force engaged in a pursuit action against the enemy, in an attempt to trap large numbers of hostile troops. His troops were moving in a motorized column rapidly into enemy territory. While on the move, Colonel Duncan, at the head of his column, learned that the enemy was attempting to sever the column in the middle with an attack at a road intersection. Arriving at the endangered section, Colonel Duncan, exhibiting great personal courage and a display of superior professional skill, organized and directed an attack on the enemy. His outstanding leadership in the face of enemy fire inspired his troops to their maximum effort and the enemy threat was eliminated. Through his leadership and gallantry he prevented the disintegration of the column and insured the continued rapid advance of the forward troops to the objective. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Duncan, 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.