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 Norton (ASN: 32977436), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 19 November 18944, in Germany. While making an attack against enemy positions, the platoon with which Staff Sergeant Norton was serving in capacity of Squad Leader, came under heavy machine gun fire from an enemy position which threatened the impetus of the assault. Without hesitation, and displaying outstanding initiative and courage, Staff Sergeant Norton worked his way forward and fired smoke and rifle grenades into the enemy position until it was neutralized. His courageous action enabled the platoon to resume the attack and to accomplish its mission. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Norton, 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. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Norton, 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.