The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William T. Ferrell (MCSN: 668096), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Leader of a Fire Team in Company H, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Pusong-ni, Korea, on 7 December 1950. Shortly after his squad leader was seriously wounded while leading an attack over open terrain in the face of hostile mortar, machine-gun and small arms fire, Private First Class Ferrell voluntarily assumed command of the squad, reorganized its members and continued the mission of assaulting a well-entrenched and camouflaged enemy position, containing two machine guns and supporting riflemen, Skillfully leading the attack, he was primarily responsible for the success of his squad in seizing the objective, putting the hostile emplacement out of action and securing the position. His initiative, courageous leadership and indomitable fighting spirit were contributing factors in assisting the company in attaining its objectives, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.