The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Gunnery Sergeant William S. Evans (MCSN: 271415), United States Marine Corps, for heroic achievement in action against the enemy during the battle of Piva Forks on Bougainville, British Solomon Islands on 22 November 1943. Gunnery Sergeant Evans, acting as leader of a rifle platoon, was ordered to lead his platoon on a reconnaissance against strongly fortified Japanese positions concealed in heavily overgrown jungle terrain. While advancing toward enemy lines, the platoon was subjected to intense enemy artillery and grenade fire which prevented further progress. Believing the platoon had been detected, he ordered the men to return to their own lines, and continued to reconnoiter single-handed, penetrating the Japanese rear area where he plotted location of enemy emplacements and gathered information on troop dispositions. He immediately returned to his own lines and reported the information gained, which enabled our artillery to fire effectively at enemy positions. His energetic and loyal devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Born:
,
Home:
,
Awards Received
-
Bronze Star Medal
-
Bronze Star Medal
-
Bronze Star Medal
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
Gunnery SergeantBatallion:
2d BattalionRegiment:
3d MarinesAction Date:
November 22, 1943
-
Bronze Star Medal
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
Master SergeantAction Date:
December 20, 1951 – February 18, 1952
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Master Sergeant William S. Evans (MCSN: 271415), United States Marine Corps, for meritorious achievement in connection with operations against the enemy in Korea while serving with a Marine Infantry company from 20 December 1951 to 18 February 1952. While serving as Company Gunnery Sergeant, Master Sergeant Evans displayed outstanding skill and courage, working tirelessly to supervise the procurement and distribution of company supplies. On 7 February 1952 when the company field kitchen was under intense enemy mortar fire he quickly proceeded to the scene to aid the wounded and organize evacuation teams. On several occasions he left his bunker during enemy artillery and mortar barrages to insure prompt attention to the wounded. When he became a casualty he disregarded his personal safety and carried a more seriously wounded man for over a mile of rugged mountainous terrain to effect successful evacuation. His energy, keen sense of duty and courageous actions under fire were an inspiration to all who observed him. Master Sergeant Evans’ meritorious service and exemplary conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Master Sergeant Evans is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)