The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal [then Private First Class] William J. Sinnott (ASN: 16144717), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 6 April 1945, in the vicinity of Unter Griesheim, Germany. Corporal Sinnott was attached to Company E as forward observer for the supporting cannon platoon. When the company was pinned down by enemy machine gun fire, he rushed forward to the crest of the hill to observe and adjust fire under intense enemy mortar and artillery fire. He repeatedly exposed himself to this enemy fire while locating and bringing fire to bear upon the enemy positions. His destruction in this manner of enemy machine guns permitted the company to advance and take its objectives. Corporal Sinnott’s coolness and outstanding courage under fire are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.