The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Cook Third Class Willie J. Jackson, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as a crew member of the U.S.S. LST-357 during the invasion of Italy during 1944. Cook Third Class Jackson performed his duties as stretcher bearer courageously, although suffering intense pain from shrapnel wounds in the head and thigh suffered while administering first aid to his commanding officer. He repeatedly exposed himself to shell fire to care for his comrades. 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.