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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) William W. Read (ASN: 0-423832), United States Army, for gallantry in action while a member of the 192d Tank Battalion, in action on 29 December 1941, when the half-track he commanded was destroyed by hostile fire near Concepcion, Tarlac Province, Luzon, Philippine Islands. Although he suffered the loss of a leg, Lieutenant Read heroically refused evacuation in favor of other wounded members of his crew and died before additional help could be guided to him. Second Lieutenant Read’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, at the loss of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.