The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class William Henry Myers (MCSN: 2315999), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in action against elements of the North Vietnamese Army while serving as Assistant Gunner for the first machine-gun team of the Third Squad, Company D, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam during Operation UNION on 12 May 1967. While moving with an aggressive attack by his unit in the vicinity of Que Son, the lead elements came under heavy automatic and semi-automatic small arms, grenade, and mortar fire. The platoon to which Private First Class Myers’ gun team was attached maneuvered into position to provide flanking fire against the entrenched enemy soldiers. As his platoon was moving into position it came under intense small-arms fire from a range of about 200 meters. The gunner of the machine-gun team of which Private First Class Myers was a member was instantly killed. Unhesitatingly, Private First Class Myers picked up the gun and boldly advanced through withering fire across 150 meters of open rice paddy in order to place himself in a position to deliver enfilade fire upon the trench works. He skillfully placed his gun into action while bullets and grenades were tearing up the earth on all sides. His deadly fire and accurate aim caused numerous casualties and created untold confusion in the ranks of the enemy. When his ammunition was expended, he fearlessly returned across the open paddy to the body of his fallen gunner and recovered the machine-gun ammunition which the gunner had been carrying. In the face of almost certain death he again crossed the open paddy, returned to his position, and for the second time placed his gun into action. By this time his position had been pinpointed by enemy snipers to his right. With no regard for his own personal safety he continued to pour forth his endless stream of fire into the enemy positions. After approximately three minutes of steady firing, Private First Class Myers was hit by enemy fire and mortally wounded. His steadfast devotion to duty served as an inspiration to the entire company, which then rallied and drove the enemy from its almost impregnable position. Private First Class Myers’ extraordinary courage and selfless devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.