The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant William R. Taylor (ASN: RA-19882045), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 9 May 1968 while serving with Troop I, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date the fire support base of the 25th Infantry Division, for which Troop I was providing security, suddenly came under an intense enemy mortar attack from an estimated battalion of enemy soldiers. During the initial barrage of fire, Sergeant Taylor’s assault vehicle received a direct hit from a mortar round, seriously wounding one crew member and mortally wounding three. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Taylor climbed out of the cupola completely exposed to the hostile fire, and administered emergency first aid to his wounded comrades. He then returned to the cupola and directed a deadly barrage of fire upon the enemy elements who had by the begun assaulting his position. After the first assault has halted, Sergeant Taylor immediately evacuated his wounded crew members to an aid station. Sergeant Taylor then returned to his assault vehicle and renewed his devastating fire upon the assaulting hostile troops. His gallant actions were instrumental in thwarting two additional assaults which the enemy forces made upon the fire support base. Sergeant Taylor’s unwavering devotion to duty, disregard of personal safety and deep concern for the lives and welfare of his comrades were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.