The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Billy J. Thompson (ASN: 14159386), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 10 July 1944, in France. Corporal Thompson was serving as an Assistant Squad Leader with an Infantry Company engaged in withstanding the onslaught of a local enemy counterattack. Hostile forces were using tanks, artillery, and mortar fire to support their attack and increasing pressure threatened to force a withdrawal of our forces. Working desperately, Corporal Thompson moved from place to place under fire exhorting and encouraging his men to hold firmly to their positions. When two of his comrades were wounded, he crawled over an exposed area and effected their rescue. The courage and devotion to duty exhibited by Corporal Thompson were an inspiration to his fellow soldiers and were were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Army.