The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Private William W. Bachofner (ASN: 11007082), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with a Field Artillery Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from March through July 1943. While under heavy enemy artillery fire, Private Bachofner, a switchboard operator, made repeated trips across terrain exposed to this fire and repaired broken communication lines. 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.