The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant William E. Longbottom (ASN: 35457337), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 314th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 November 1944, in France. While moving to establish an outpost, Sergeant Longbottom and his squad were ambushed by a platoon of enemy who were attempting to occupy the same position. Leading his squad in a direct assault that dispersed the enemy, as well as killing and capturing many, Sergeant Longbottom secured the outpost and established communication, and then directed effective artillery fire on the enemy positions. The courageous leadership and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Longbottom reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.