The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William W. Sears, Jr. (MCSN: 288221), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, Fifth Engineering Battalion, FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 17 March 1945. Exposing himself to heavy mortar and sniper fire, Corporal Sears remained in a vulnerable position and, although seriously wounded, covered his squad’s withdrawal from a dangerous demolition mission ahead of the front lines. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.