The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Private First Class] William C. Cadman (ASN: 33276188), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 5 September 1944 in France. When his assault boat was sunk by enemy fire while crossing the Moselle River at Pont-a-Mousson, France, Staff Sergeant Cadman swam to shore with a wounded comrade. Then under enemy artillery, mortar, and small arms fire he made three trips into the swollen river to rescue other wounded soldiers. The conspicuous bravery and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Staff Sergeant Cadman were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.