The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William M. Hall (ASN: 0-1322220), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 April 1945, in Germany. Realizing that the loss of the town he was defending from an overwhelming enemy attack which sept all from before it would mean the loss of the last bridgehead over the Elbe River, First Lieutenant Hall rapidly organized his men and determined to hold at all costs. He exposed himself to murderous fire to direct the defenses from close range. By his gallant actions, First Lieutenant Hall was able to cause severe casualties on the enemy and force them to halt their drive. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Hall, 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.