The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] William G. Klippel, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. When a large group of Japanese launched a night attack and penetrated his unit’s command post area on 23 February 1945, Corporal Klippel immediately directed the light tank which he commanded to proceed to the road. Then, though the Japanese directed savage fire at him, he took a position atop the tank, illuminated targets with his vehicle’s spotlight, and directed 37 millimeter fire at the hostile forces. Corporal Klippel performed this hazardous mission until daylight, and was instrumental in killing fifteen of 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, his unit, and the United States Army.