The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain William Edgar Watt, Canadian Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Canadian Infantry Corps in the South Pacific as an Observer, in action against the enemy on Saipan on 7 July 1944. When officer casualties left an infantry battalion headquarters without a staff intelligence officer, Captain [now Acting Major] Watt volunteered his services. Thereafter he frequently led reconnaissance patrols through enemy territory. On one occasion he risked his life to direct a squad in the capture of a strongly fortified cave from which the enemy was delaying our advance. Exposing himself to enemy fire, Captain Watt skillfully deployed flame throwers and demolition men for the initial attack; and then led the squad in the final assault. Captain Watt’s courageous conduct, without regard for his own safety, reflects the finest traditions of the Canadian Military Service.