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 First Class Cecil McCauley Willis (ASN: 29828907), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 April 1945. Private First Class Willis courageously braved intense enemy fire to dash about the top of an exposed hill in order to rescue and give medical treatment to three American soldiers. When one man suffered a severe chest wound, Private First Class Willis immediately dashed to his side and applied treatment which saved his life. He rescued another man who was blinded by grenade fragments; and then treated and evacuated a third who was suffering from wounds and shock. On one occasion Private First Class Willis was knocked down by the concussion from an exploding shell, However, he disregarded the constant enemy fire and immediately continued on his missions of mercy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Willis, 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Cecil McCauley Willis (ASN: 29828907), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Ft. Stotsenburg, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 1 February, 1945. As a medical aid man, Private Willis was attached to an infantry company when it attacked a steep enemy-held hill. Immediately after the unit reached the peak of the hill it received heavy enemy fire, which in a short time wounded twelve men. Private Willis exposed himself repeatedly to aid the wounded. Moving from one position to another, while hostile fire was still pouring in, he saved the lives of at least four men by his prompt attention and presence of mind. When not actually giving first aid, he was assisting litter bearers to evacuate the wounded. 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.