The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Technician Fifth Grade William D. Atkinson (ASN: 34784211), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 32d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (Mechanized) on 22 December 1944, in Belgium. Technician Fifth Grade Atkinson voluntarily assumed command of an armored car during an attack by enemy infantrymen and tanks upon his platoon command post. As his platoon withdrew upon orders, he remained behind to cover the movement. During the engagement, he accounted for nineteen German dead and inflicted innumerable casualties upon the attacking force. By his gallant actions, his entire platoon withdrew without loss of life or equipment.