The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William Carl Adams (MCSN: 2082965), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company D, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 2 June 1967, during Operation UNION II, Corporal Adams’ unit came under intense enemy automatic weapons and mortar fire and grenade attack while conducting a search and destroy mission in Quang Nam Province. Quickly evaluating the situation, Corporal Adams skillfully maneuvered his squad across the fire-swept terrain toward the enemy positions. Completely disregarding his own safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire and, while delivering effective M-79 grenade fire against the enemy positions, sustained a hand wound. Ignoring his painful injury, he steadfastly remained in his position and continued to effectively direct his squad. Observing a platoon on his right flank moving directly into the enemy fields of fire, Corporal Adams fearlessly ran through the hostile fire to warn the unit, however he was thrown to the ground by an exploding grenade. Despite multiple body and head wounds, Corporal Adams immediately regained his feet and courageously completed his extremely hazardous mission. Returning to his squad, he remained with his men, directing their fire and encouraging them throughout the remainder of the fire fight and then assisted in the collection and evacuation of the wounded. On the following morning, only after ordered to do so by his commanding officer, did he accept medical treatment for his wounds. His outstanding leadership and bold initiative were an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, exceptional professionalism and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Corporal Adams upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.