The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant William G. Byfield (MCSN: 410309), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Namur Island, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, on 1 and 2 February 1944. Separated from his platoon during operations in a position ahead of the front lines, Sergeant Byfield joined a Marine assault team vigorously attacking hostile emplacements in the area. When the group was subsequently cut off and surrounded and the leader was killed, he unhesitatingly assumed command, tenaciously holding back the enemy while the uninjured made a withdrawal to friendly lines. Remaining throughout the night with those who were wounded and unable to move, he was instrumental in saving them from further attack by the Japanese. By his courage, spirit of self-sacrifice and unwavering devotion to duty, Sergeant Byfield rendered valiant service and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.