The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gunner’s Mate First Class William Paul Dillard (NSN: 6543741), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. BUTLER (DD-636) in action against the enemy on 29 April 1945, at Okinawa Gunto. During heavy enemy air attack he was seriously wounded but remained at his post and directed the fire of his gun against subsequent attacks in a conspicuously heroic manner. By his personal courage, skill in combat, and determination, he gave encouragement to his crew in a manner that caused his gun to be largely instrumental in the destruction of enemy aircraft thereby saving his ship from possible serious damage. His heroism, courage and devotion to duty in the face of grave injury to himself were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.