Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) William Edwin Ferguson (ASN: 0-5318167), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Ferguson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 27 December 1968 while serving as Commanding Officer, Company C, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on an intelligence and medical civic actions mission in Long An Province. When Captain Ferguson received a message that a popular forces unit was engaged with an enemy force nearby, he immediately moved his men toward the location to assist the friendly unit. As they approached the area his company was hit by intense enemy fire and Captain Ferguson was seriously wounded. Refusing to be evacuated, Captain Ferguson completely disregarded his own safety, and continued to direct his men until the enemy force was overrun. Only after the area had been secured and the enemy completely routed would Captain Ferguson allow himself to be evacuated from the area to a hospital where he succumbed to his wounds. Captain Ferguson’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against an armed hostile force was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received