The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Private First Class William P. Holt (MCSN: 1082807), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Machine Gunner in an Anti-Tank Company of the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the town of Sudong-ni, Korea, on the night of 10 December 1950. Observing that the foremost elements of the regimental motor convoy were pinned down by intense hostile fire following a highly organized enemy ambush, Private First Class Holt advanced unaccompanied to the head of the column in the face of hostile small-arms, machine-gun and mortar fire from well-entrenched enemy emplacements. Skillfully manning his light machine gun from an advantageous position, he furnished cover for the deployment of the beleaguered convoy troops and, undeterred by the lack of protection, inflicted severe damage and destruction on the enemy. When heavy supporting weapons delivered a barrage of accurate shellfire on hostile position, he fired adroitly on the enemy, killing several as they fled from their bombarded locations. Courageously remaining at his post throughout the night, he continued to direct effective fire until his machine gun became inoperative, and then, moving forward, fired his carbine into hostile lines and at targets of opportunity until ordered to withdraw. His quick initiative, skilled marksmanship and indomitable fighting spirit reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Holt and the United States Naval Service.