The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant William L. Hoop (ASN: 35116906), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 136th Field Artillery Battalion, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. On 14 February 1945 in Manila, Sergeant Hoop was a member of a field artillery forward observer section which was manning an advanced position, conducting fire on an enemy-held building across the Pasig River about 100 yards away. The target was so close that shell fragments and shattered masonry from the structure continually sprayed through the observation post, making the position extremely hazardous. On one occasion Filipino civilians attempted to escape from enemy hands by swimming the river. Completely disregarding his personal safety, and despite intense hostile rifle fire, Sergeant Hoop immediately raced down to the river bank, and remained exposed until he succeeded in getting the civilians out of the river and back to the cover of the observation post. Much valuable information concerning Japanese troop dispositions and installations was obtained from the Filipinos. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.