The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) William P. Mitchell (ASN: 0-451075), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy from 8 July 1944 to 13 July 1944, in France. Captain Mitchell, subjected to severe mortar and artillery fire by the enemy, personally directed effective artillery fire on enemy armor and troop concentrations. During a fierce counter-attack, when infantry elements of our forces began to falter, Captain Mitchell voluntarily moved forward from the comparative safety of his observation post and proceeded to rally the troops to repulse the enemy. His untiring efforts in the face of violent enemy opposition displayed courage and initiative far above the call of duty. The bravery and resourcefulness exhibited by Captain Mitchell reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.