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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign William Ellis Pulliam, II (NSN: 0-340853), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in March 1945, as a member of the Underwater Demolition Team SIXTEEN (UDT-16) assault unit participating in the assault landing in the Okinawa Gunto. In the face of enemy rifle, machine gun and mortar fire, he bravely prepared the way for the operation’s combat troops and by his courageous devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of this hazardous mission. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Fighter Squadron 193 (VF-193)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Princeton (CV-37)

    Action Date:

    August 2, 1952
    All Hands (June 1953)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant William Ellis Pulliam, II (NSN: 0-340853), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement and gallantry while participating in aerial flight while serving with Fighter Squadron ONE HUNDRED NINETY-THREE (VF-193), embarked in U.S.S. PRINCETON (CV-37), on 2 August 1952, while engaging enemy anti-aircraft positions in the Tanchon Area of North Korea. Despite unfavorable weather conditions and concentrated anti-aircraft opposition, Lieutenant Pulliam bore the brunt of a deadly hail of enemy anti-aircraft fire to lead his division of aircraft in a dive bombing and strafing attack against the enemy gun positions. Although repeatedly hit by ground fire, he courageously pressed his attack, personally silencing three of the guns. Lieutenant Pulliam did not recover from his dive and was seen to crash with his aircraft at the target. His complete disregard for his own personal safety, relentless fighting spirit, and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.