The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William Weitzel (MCSN: 1335831), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 19 March 1953. During a six-man reconnaissance patrol forward of the main line of resistance, Private First Class Weitzel’s unit maneuvered near an outpost position where it met the brunt of an enemy company-size attack that was directed at the outpost. Although painfully wounded during the engagement, he delivered devastating and accurate fire on the enemy to assist in covering the patrol’s withdrawal to the outpost. After clearing a path through the protective wire of the outpost, he carried a wounded comrade to the friendly trench line and then continued to deliver withering fire on the enemy. When his weapon became inoperative, he fearlessly engaged several hostile soldiers in hand-to-hand combat to protect his wounded comrade. After the enemy withdrew, he refused medical aid until all other casualties had been treated and, despite his painful condition, walked to the main line of resistance in order that other casualties could be carried on stretchers. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and fortitude, Private First Class Weitzel served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.