The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Carpenter’s Mate First Class William T. Marshall, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action as a member of the 1st Beach Battalion during the amphibious invasion south of Salerno 15 September 1943. Carpenter’s Mate First Class Marshall volunteered to man a vital position on the beach and signal our landing craft to successful disembarkation. Through a direct line of hostile artillery fire, he went to his post and remained steadfast until all landing craft were properly beached. 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 Naval Service.