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 Willie M. Owens (ASN: 34799266), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 October 1944, in Germany. During an assault upon the Siegfried Line, which included a river Crossing, Private Owens was carrying a footbridge section when he was severely wounded. Realizing the importance of getting the bridge constructed to facilitate movement of the assaulting troops, Private Owens continued for more than 200 yards, waded into the river, and held his section of the bridge in place so that it could be staked down before he submitted himself to medical care. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Owens, 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.