The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class William C. Nichols (ASN: 34155562), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily in 1943. When his company commander was seriously wounded, Private Nichols, voluntarily and without regard for his personal safety, proceeded over terrain swept by heavy enemy fire and evacuated the officer to a place of safety. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.