The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private William W. Hinkle (MCSN: 554421), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands on 3 October 1944. Observing an enemy machine gun crew setting up their weapon, Private Hinkle unhesitatingly stood up and, fully exposed to concentrated enemy sniper fire and a grenade barrage, killed the entire gun crew. His courageous action prevented his platoon from becoming isolated from the rest of the unit and enabled them to make a successful reorganization. His gallant spirit of service, courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private Hinkle and the United States Naval Service.