The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Billy J. Wallace (ASN: RA-38682333), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 May 1951 in the vicinity of Kunmul-gol, Korea. On this date when Company C was attacked by a numerically superior enemy force, Sergeant Wallace, with utter disregard for his personal safety, crawled from one position to another encouraging his men and directing devastating fire upon the advancing hostile force. During the ensuing action, when his unit was overrun by the enemy and forced to withdraw Sergeant Wallace voluntarily remained behind and fought a rear guard action while his comrades withdrew to better defensive positions. When last seen he was employing devastating fire on the rapidly advancing hostile forces, inflicting numerous casualties upon them. His courage and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who witnessed his deed. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Wallace on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.