The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Willis J. King (ASN: 0-1284200), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 11 November 1944. Captain King contributed to the preparation and coordination of the various elements of his battalion in the successful attack on an enemy held bridge and town. From his position in front of the battalion, Captain King started the final assault through an inferno of enemy small arms, machine gun, 40-mm., and 155-mm. artillery, and direct fire from Tiger Tanks to capture this enemy held bridge and take the town beyond. Captain King’s intelligent planning, continuous efforts to keep coordination of the elements of the battalion, determination and zealous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.