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 First Class William W. Southerland (ASN: 38518981), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action at ****, France, 16 September 1944. Private Southerland, a light machine gunner, accompanied advance elements of the *** Infantry Regiment in crossing the **** River near ****, France. A determined enemy defended ****, so that a house-by-house struggle ensued for the town. After the enemy had been forced to withdraw, Private Southerland established his machine gun emplacement at the corner of a building, affording him an effective field of fire. When the enemy counterattacked in an attempt to re-take the town, under cover of intense machine gun fire, Private Southerland ordered other members of his squad to take cover in the building, but himself remained in position. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he engaged in a fire fight with the enemy, and although he was mortally wounded in this action, his courageous and tenacious actions in the face of an attacking force enabled his men to hold their position until support from other units reached the area and made the defenses of the town secure. 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.