The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lance Corporal William David Spencer, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Rifleman, Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, Regimental Combat Team 5, I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), on 28 December 2006, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Lance Corporal Spencer’s squad advanced from over watch positions across Route CATHY to investigate a suspected sniper and his vehicle. After masking their movement with a smoke canister, the squad moved south to re-enter the platoon’s positions. A concealed enemy sniper shot and mortally wounded the squad leader, while nearby enemy positions began firing on the dismounted Marines. Without concern for his own safety, Lance Corporal Spencer quickly and bravely left his covered position. He entered the fire-swept street to pull his squad leader to safety, and also directed his squad’s suppressive fires. As he dragged the Corporal towards a Marine-held building, Lance Corporal Spender was shot and mortally wounded by the enemy sniper. He gallantly gave his life in an attempt to save a wounded Marine. By his bold leadership, wise judgment and complete dedication to duty, Lance Corporal Spencer reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.