The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William L. Poucher (ASN: RA-17336553), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division. During the early morning hours of 6 September 1952, Private Poucher’s unit was attacking an enemy force which had partially surrounded a friendly outpost and had begun a penetration of the main line of resistance near Satae-ri, Korea. Despite intense enemy mortar and grenade fire, Private Poucher advanced with his automatic rifle to a position from which he could place effective fire into the hostile ranks. Although painfully wounded, he continued to deliver a steady stream of accurate fire which inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy and stopped their advance. Private Poucher was again wounded, but realizing that his was the only automatic weapon in the area, refused to be evacuated. Although weak from shock and loss of blood, he courageously remained in position and continued to fire. Private Poucher then noticed a comrade fighting violently to escape from the surrounded outpost position. Completely disregarding his personal safety, Private Poucher charged forward through heavy fire and began throwing grenades to support his trapped comrade. His courageous assault enabled the trapped man to fight his way through to friendly lines. Private Poucher’s heroic actions were a great inspiration to his comrades, and contributed materially to the success of the unit’s mission. His courage, determination, and unselfish devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.