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 H. Trott (ASN: 12008876), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery D, 5th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from January to April 1943. When his battery had been forced to withdraw from its position because of heavy enemy fire, Private First Class Trott repeatedly returned to this position and assisted in the evacuation of valuable equipment that otherwise might have been captured or destroyed by the enemy. 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.