The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant William E. Townsley, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a Forward Air Controller directing fighter aircraft in Southeast Asia on 19 January 1969. On that date, Lieutenant Townsley, in his capacity as a Forward Air Controller, directed fighter aircraft against certain heavily defended hostile positions. After directing these aircraft, his aircraft received a direct hit from hostile anti-aircraft fire which forced him to bail out. Upon reaching the ground, Lieutenant Townsley continued to direct tactical aircraft both to aid in effecting his own rescue, as well as destroy a factory area which he discovered during his 21 hours on the ground. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Townsley has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.