The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William J. Stokley (MCSN: 612389), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces south of Yudam-ni, Korea, on 1 December 1950.
When the point platoon and its attached tank were subjected to heavy automatic weapons and small arms fire from positions on high ground while proceeding along the battalion’s main supply routed, Private First Class Stokley supervised his team in delivering fire against the enemy emplacements. While other units of the company moved forward during the ensuing action to combat the continued intense hostile barrage which killed three men and wounded nine, he fearlessly climbed onto the heavy tank, voluntarily manned the .50 caliber machine gun and registered accurate fire on the enemy positions approximately 800 yards east of the supply route, thereby furnishing cover for the evacuation of casualties. Staunchly maintaining a vigorous defense, he remained at his post until a severe leg wound forced him to submit to evacuation. His bold initiative, indomitable courage and inspiring devotion to duty were contributing factors in the success of the company in achieving its objective, and reflect great credit upon Private First Class Stokley and the United States Naval Service.