The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) William D. Besselieu, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action on 24 to 27 June 1969, while serving as an Advisor to an allied artillery battalion during operations against a hostile force in Southeast Asia. On 24 June 1969, the allied position at which Captain Besselieu was located came under attack by three North Vietnamese battalions. After 16 hours of enemy shellings and assaults, Captain Besselieu volunteered to remain with the position during the night. His control of friendly artillery and close air support was instrumental in the successful defense of 24 June. Throughout that night and during the next three days Captain Besselieu exposed himself to enemy mortar and small arms fire in order to direct the friendly fire and evacuate wounded. On 27 June, when the evacuation of the position was ordered, Captain Besselieu assisted in organizing the movement to minimize friendly casualties. In frequently exposing himself to hostile fire he moved from place to place exploiting the evacuation. His actions were instrumental in holding down friendly casualties during the withdrawal and contributed to preventing the loss of more than the one helicopter lost in action. Captain Besselieu’s calm and determined aggressive actions to stop the enemy attack, and his valorous action in conducting an orderly withdrawal when further defense became impossible, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon him, his organization, and the United States Army.