Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) George Williams (ASN: 0-1015988), United States Army, for meritorious service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States in France, Belgium and Germany, 6 June to 25 November 1944. Lieutenant Williams capably guided the activities of his platoon so as to provide maximum engineering support during critical tactical operations. His thorough understanding of all phases of his work figured materially in the successful accomplishment of every assigned mission. He was constantly alert for improved methods of operation, to produce more effective results for the ultimate advantage of his organization. Regardless of personal risk, Lieutenant Williams wholeheartedly applied himself to the task at hand. His courage, competence and initiative reflect great credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers)

    Batallion:

    4th Engineer Combat Battalion

    Division:

    4th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 29, 1944

    Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 86 (1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) George Williams (ASN: 0-1015988), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, in the vicinity of Moyen, France, on 29 July 1944. At a time when the company in which Lieutenant Williams was a platoon leader was being subjected to intermittent artillery fire, a friendly tank entered the company area and attracted a concentration of enemy artillery fire. One shell struck a trailer containing more than 200 anti-tank mines and set fire to a truck. The resultant explosion leveled a large section of a hedgerow along which several men had been entrenched. Momentarily stunned by the blast, Lieutenant Williams quickly recovered and led several injured men to safety. Amid further mine explosions, he returned and rescued several men who had been buried in t heir foxholes by the explosion. One of his men, Lieutenant Williams learned after probing under the blazing truck, was trapped in a foxhole beneath the vehicle. After failing in an attempt to dig the man out, Lieutenant Williams and an enlisted man, by means of a cable and a half-track vehicle, removed the burning truck. They then dug the man from the foxhole, effecting the rescue despite the danger of mines which were still exploding, and with the knowledge that the burning truck was loaded with unexploded dynamite. The courage, initiative and calmness displayed by Lieutenant Williams reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.