The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) William Waller (ASN: 0-5420102), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 196th Light Infantry Brigade. Second Lieutenant Waller distinguished himself by heroic actions while serving as forward observer for an infantry unit on 4 February 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. While participating in a search and destroy operation in the vicinity of Tay Ninh, his platoon came under heavy automatic weapons fire from well-entrenched Viet Cong positions. The platoon received several casualties including Lieutenant Waller who received a head wound. Despite his wound and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Waller remained behind to call in close and continuous artillery fire on the Viet Cong entrenchments, thus enabling the platoon to readjust its position. Only after all the wounded had been evacuated and the platoon had established a good defensive perimeter did Lieutenant Waller seek medical attention. His actions allowed the platoon to place effective fire on the enemy and keep the number of friendly casualties at a minimum. Lieutenant Waller’s conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.