The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Paul Irving Williams (ASN: 0-418154), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber of the SEVENTH Air Force, in action over Midway Island on 3 June 1942. Lieutenant Williams participated in bombing the Japanese fleet that attacked Midway Island. About 300 miles northwest of Midway, the fleet, consisting of two aircraft carriers and eight destroyers was discovered. During the bombing run, the bombs in his plane failed to release. Lieutenant Williams then left the formation and, by often changing his altitude and direction, remained above the warships until the bombs were successfully released. His determination to complete his mission is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service.