The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal William Elmer Boesl (ASN: ER-17250928), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company M, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 20 September 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On that date Corporal Boesl was loading his half-track with supplies under intense enemy fire when a round ignited a drum of gasoline setting his vehicle on fire. While attempting to put out the fire, he was seriously wounded but, despite the pain, he successfully extinguished the blaze thereby saving his vehicle. He then advanced over the fire-swept area to his unit’s position and, while under intense hostile artillery and mortar fire, assisted in the evacuation of his wounded comrades. Corporal Boesl continued in this heroic manner until he was finally overcome from shock and loss of blood. His dauntless courage and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all of his comrades. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Boesl on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.