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 Corporal William J. Fox (ASN: 35332026), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Anti-tank Company, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 17 March 1945, in the vicinity of Fechingen, Germany. The first platoon remained with one rifle company to hold the town of Fechingen after its capture. After communication lines between the three anti-tank gun squads had been destroyed by enemy artillery fire, Corporal Fox volunteered to repair the lines in the face of sniper and artillery fire. After he had repaired all breaks and communications had been restored for the fire direction of the guns, he was fatally wounded. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Corporal Fox reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.