The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William R. MacPherson (MCSN: 385917), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Gunner of a Machine-Gun Squad serving with the First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the battle of Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on November 23, 1943. Boldly defying intense fire when Japanese infantry supported by three machine guns viciously attacked his squad, Private First Class MacPherson refused to seek shelter and, opening fire on the enemy, destroyed the crews of two of the hostile weapons. By his fearless efforts, he inspired his comrades to launch a vigorous attack on the remaining machine gun and repulse the Japanese assault. Private First Class MacPherson’s unflinching courage, valiant fighting spirit and zealous devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were contributing factors in the success of our forces in that area and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.