The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant William R. Houchins (ASN: 33653102), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Toggelier on a heavy bombardment mission of the EIGHTH Air Force over Germany, 31 March 1945. At the initial point, intense anti-aircraft fire damaged his aircraft and severely wounded Sergeant Houchins. Thrown to the rear of the nose compartment by the impact, he courageously made his way back to his position and remained on the alert. Realizing that the success of the operation depended on each member of the crew devoting full attention to his duty, Sergeant Houchins, though bleeding profusely and suffering untold pain, remained silent. For the remainder of the fifteen minute bomb-run he remained at his station, submitting to medical aid only after the bombs were released on the target. The fortitude, tenacity, and gallantry displayed by Sergeant Houchins on this occasion were an inspiration to the entire crew.