The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant William C. Slappey (ASN: 20468631), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 30th Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized), 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 April 1945, in Germany. When a well emplaced enemy machine gun started firing on his column, Sergeant Slappey gallantly stood up in his vehicle and fired on the enemy gun, knocking it out. He remained in his exposed position, firing with great effect on the enemy, until his vehicle was knocked out by panzerfaust fire. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Slappey, 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.