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 pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) William Lyman Haines, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Haines distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), in action against the enemy in April 1969. Captain Haines was serving as an artillery forward observer when his company found a well-traveled road, with signs of recent heavy movement. The company proceeded along the road until the front and left flank were engaged by intense automatic weapons and rocket fire. Although several men were wounded in the initial contact, with complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Haines crawled forward to within 30 meters of the enemy positions. He then accurately directed artillery fire on the enemy. Upon seeing a wounded man on the left flank, he courageously crawled to the man and dragged him to a secure position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Haines, 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.