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 Sergeant First Class William Lloyd Cates (ASN: RA-19435039), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Sergeant First Class Cates distinguished himself in close combat with the enemy on several occasions during the period 21-23 November 1967 on Hill 875 near Dak To, Republic of Vietnam, while serving with Company B, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). At approximately 1530 hours 21 November 1967, Sergeant Cates led his platoon in an assault on the enemy trench and bunker system on Hill 875. Before the assault had moved far, the platoon was pinned down by heavy mortar, rocket and automatic weapons fire. At one point, Sergeant Cates exposed himself to automatic weapons fire to render aid to his platoon leader who was in a very precarious situation in front of a bunker. As the intensity of the fire increased and the order was given to withdraw to original positions, Sergeant Cates continuously exposed himself to rocket and automatic weapons fire to insure that all his men were moved back and all wounded and dead were recovered from outside the perimeter. Another assault was made on 23 November 1967, and again Sergeant Cates distinguished himself as he led his platoon in the assault. As his platoon reached the forward trenches and bunkers, it was apparent that a satchel charge was needed to destroy them as they were very heavily constructed. Although the unit was under heavy mortar attack, Sergeant Cates unhesitatingly moved through the fire, grabbed a twenty pound satchel charge, and started back to the bunkers. Sergeant Cates came under such heavy fire that he was eventually struck down, but not before he had inspired his men to a point where they could not be stopped or turned back again. Sergeant First Class Cates’ valorous actions undoubtedly contributed greatly to the overall mission and were an inspiration to all who observed them. Sergeant Cates’ actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.