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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) William Thomas Reach, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Reach distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as an Advisor with Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, in action against the enemy on 9 January 1965. Captain Reach remained at his radio post during a heavy attack by a strong Viet Cong element. When he saw that he and a sergeant could hold out no longer, he ordered the non-commissioned officer to withdraw and covered him until he reached safety. He then exposed himself to enemy fire to help a wounded Vietnamese soldier, and was mortally wounded as he tried to carry the injured man to safety. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Reach, 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.