The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant William W. Jacks, United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 2832d Engineer Combat Battalion, during the crossing of the Rhine River, in the vicinity of Worms, Germany, on 26 March 1945. At about 0400 hours Sergeant Jacks volunteered to place a light on the far shore to guide amphibious tanks to their exit point. Under enemy observation and fire he crossed the river, placed the light at the exit point, and then started back. Upon discovering several drowning men whose assault raft had been sunk by enemy shell fire, Sergeant Jacks, without hesitating, immediately went to their rescue. He was able to rescue six of these men, all of whom he brought to the near shore for medical attention. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman in the dedication of his service to his country, Sergeant Jacks has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.