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 B. Aden (ASN: 0-513994), 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 16 February 1945 in Germany. While leading his platoon into an attack against a Siegfried Line pillbox near Wallendorf, Germany, on 16 February 1945, Lieutenant Aden was wounded but continued with his mission. When the tactical situation necessitated a temporary withdrawal, Lieutenant Aden refused to be evacuated or to leave the field until all his wounded men were removed. Such courage, leadership, and devotion to duty as displayed by Lieutenant Aden were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William B. Aden (ASN: 0-513994), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.