The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class William D. Kelley (MCSN: 539685), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of a patrol serving with the Intelligence Section of the Fourth Marines, Reinforced, First Provisional Marine Brigade, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Guam, Mariana Islands, on 30 July 1944. Dispatched to capture as many prisoners as possible in order to gain vital information, Private First Class Kelley boldly advanced toward an assigned Japanese position. When his platoon was suddenly fired upon from ambush before reaching the objective, he valiantly attempted to rescue a wounded comrade, but was himself wounded by an enemy sniper. Determined in his efforts to reach the fallen Marine, he unhesitatingly continued across the exposed area but was struck down by a second burst of enemy fire. Private First Class Kelley’s daring aggressiveness and great personal valor n voluntarily risking his life for another were an inspiration to other members of his patrol and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.