The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) William Joseph Moroney, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 163d Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on Insoemeoar Island of the Wake Island Group, from 18 to 21 May 1944. Colonel Moroney came ashore with the initial wave to reach the beach, when the fighting was at its pitch. He immediately established a command post well forward in a foxhole to better direct and control the operation. Despite intense enemy resistance, he led the forward element in driving a wedge between the eastern and western halves of the island which broke organized resistance. Subsequent to that date, Air Corps and service troops which had landed on the beaches were attacked by small groups of the enemy. Despite the fact that these troops were untrained in ground combat, Colonel Moroney organized them in a defensive position and the area was successfully defended. His outstanding tactical ability and cool leadership were responsible for the sound defeat administered the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Moroney, 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.