The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class George C. Williams (MCSN: 376427), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands from 15 September to 26 October 1944. When his squad was pinned down by automatic fire from a coral emplacement during an advance over exceedingly rugged terrain, Private First Class Williams courageously moved into position and single-handedly neutralized the enemy position. Taking charge when several of the platoon’s non-commissioned officers were wounded, he immediately reorganized the men about him and efficiently directed their activities. Wounded in action, he refused to be evacuated and remained on the line for the entire Campaign. By his initiative and aggressive fighting spirit, Private First Class Williams upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.