The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Willard J. Stevenson, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy during an attack near Percy, France, in July 1944. Private First Class Stevenson volunteered to cover the evacuation of the wounded. Armed with a rocket launcher, he continued to fire into the advancing forces long enough to permit his comrades to withdraw. he then rejoined his company. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.