The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant William J. Michels (MCSN: 0-19529), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Leader of a 60-mm. Mortar Section while attached to Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan Island in the Marianas Group, on 15 June 1944. During the establishment of a beachhead, First Lieutenant Michels assumed command of a group of approximately twenty-five riflemen and, in the face of Japanese artillery and small-arms fire, quickly organized his group and led it in a bold and determined attack against enemy forces that were inflicting casualties on friendly troops. By his prompt and aggressive action, he contributed materially to the successful completion of the mission. His courage, outstanding leadership and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.