The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William J. Morrison, Jr. (ASN: 0-1016142), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 8th Armored Division in Germany on 9 April 1945. While his platoon was pinned down by intense mortar and artillery counter-battery fire, Lieutenant Morrison went to the aid of a severely wounded man. After administering first aid, he evacuated him in a half-track vehicle. He was forced to cross open terrain in full view of the enemy and under direct fire, to reach the nearest aid station. His courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.