The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) William W. Patterson (ASN: 0-746002), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a P-38 Fighter Airplane of the 97th Fighter Squadron, 82d Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force while escorting heavy bombers on a mission against a vital industrial and rail center in Yugoslavia on 17 April 1944. Remaining in the target area after successfully escorting the bombers for a highly successful bombing run, Lieutenant Patterson intercepted an enemy transport plane and destroyed it. Observing an enemy bomber, despite the intense and accurate fire from the tail gunner of the bomber and enemy ground forces, Lieutenant Patterson attacked, and in the ensuing engagement his aircraft was seriously damaged with one engine rendered inoperative. In spite of these hazardous conditions, Lieutenant Patterson gallantly pressed his attack and destroyed the enemy plane. He then brought his aircraft safely back to base on one engine without further damage. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Patterson, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.