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 A. Porebski (ASN: 32130200), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. When a platoon commander of a rifle company requested mortar fire in his sector of advance during the battle for Manila on 15 February 1945. Sergeant Porebski, a mortar observer of an 81 millimeter mortar section, immediately set out along an exposed route to find a new observation post. Braving direct fire of numerous Japanese riflemen, and with mortar shells exploding all around him, Sergeant Porebski successfully established his post on the top floor of a church. He then directed mortar fire so accurately that many Japanese positions were destroyed and at least thirty enemy were killed. All through the night Sergeant Porebski directed mortar fire on enemy positions which inflicted many casualties and prevented the enemy from reorganizing their positions. Sergeant Porebski’s willingness to expose himself to the enemy as well as his extreme efficiency and accuracy in directing mortar fire were vital factors in the successful completion of the Company’s mission. 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.