The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private William P. Lapp (ASN: 3379320), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Normandy, France, 19 July 1944. When enemy fire forced the withdrawal of their platoon, Private Lapp and two other enlisted men voluntarily remained at their positions, delivered a heavy volume of fire against hostile machine gunners and riflemen, and signaled the remainder of the platoon to continue its movement. This unselfish action drew intense small arms and machine gun fire from the enemy, which wounded Private Lapp and his companions. In spite of their wounds, the three men continued to deliver fire until the platoon had successfully withdrawn from its precarious position without further loss. Private Lapp’s gallantry, utter disregard for personal safety and loyalty to his comrades were an inspiration to his comrades and reflect high credit upon his character as a soldier.