The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade William John Porter (ASN: 32835218), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 3d Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, in Germany, on 3 March 1945. Technician Fifth Grade Porter was assigned the mission of leading a patrol in a reconnaissance of enemy dispositions near Gusterath. As he and his men approached a vital bridge the enemy poured heavy fire upon them from concealed positions in a nearby mill and surrounding woods. Disregarding the danger, Technician Fifth Grade Porter advanced bravely alone to examing the bridge and its approaches for demolition charges. Then, although he became seriously wounded, he returned to his troop command post with information of vital importance to future strategical operations. Technician Fifth Grade Porter’s gallantry, determination, and supreme devotion to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Army of the United States.