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 L. Paulick (ASN: 20607834), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy from 23 March 1945 to 25 March 1945, in Germany. Staff Sergeant Paulick, accompanied by his platoon leader and a comrade, when to a forward area to reconnoiter and prepare emplacements for a smoke screen. They were subjected to an intense artillery barrage which resulted in the other two men being wounded. Staff Sergeant Paulick removed the wounded men from their vehicle and brought them to a barn and secured medical aid. He then continued to fulfill the original mission of the group although enemy artillery and mortar shells continued to crash all around him. His skill in directing the preparation of the smoke screen contributed materially to the success of the operation. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Paulick, 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.