The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class William C. Gandy (MCSN: 501713), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of a rifle platoon serving with the THIRD Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces at Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands on November 21, 1943. When his platoon was immobilized by intense hostile fire during an assault on strong Japanese emplacements, Private First Class Gandy unhesitatingly volunteered to make his way around the flank of the enemy to create a diversion by attacking from the rear and reaching an advantageous position, accurately fired into the hostile emplacements, killing one of the machine gunners and disrupting the coordination of the enemy’s fire. Although he was mortally wounded carrying out this heroic mission, his inspiring conduct and great courage enabled the platoon to capture the Japanese position and reach the assigned objective. Private First Class Gandy’s splendid initiative and valiant spirit of self-sacrifice contributed in a large measure to the success of the attack and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.