The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Willie L. Kemmerlin (ASN: 34124805), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 6 July 1944, in France. By his exercise of cool judgment and heroic conduct, Sergeant Kemmerlin effected the capture of 25 of the enemy, thereby eliminating an enemy strongpoint. Going with another man to investigate a suspicious building, he discovered it to be full of enemy soldiers. Instead of returning to report this information, he made use of an enemy prisoner, deceptive tactics, and accurate rifle fire to convince the enemy force of the advisability of surrender. The indomitable courage, initiative, and fidelity to duty displayed by Sergeant Kemmerlin reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.