The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William B. Merkel (ASN: 33712547), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 17 April 1945, in Germany. Enemy rocket fire knocked out a tank destroyer, setting it afire and severely burning a crew member who had been unable to escape. Despite the danger of exploding ammunition within the vehicle and intense enemy machine gun fire directed on him, Private First Class Merkel gallantly dashed to the wounded man and carried him to safety. His courageous action was responsible for saving the life of his wounded comrade. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Merkel, 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.