The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William M. MacDonald (ASN: 0-412706), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 19 February 1945, in the vicinity of Kleinblittersdorf, Germany. When the command post of his company had become surrounded by the enemy, Lieutenant MacDonald organized two squads from another unit and attacked their flank. After leading his men to an advantageous position, he was fatally wounded. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Lieutenant MacDonald reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.