The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant FA William F. Graham (ASN: 0-1177812), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, *** Armored Field Artillery Battalion, III Corps, in action against the enemy on 29 September 1944, near *****, France. On the date the infantry launched an attack against a strongly held enemy hill position. Heavy enemy mortar fire inflicted many casualties. Lieutenant Graham was accompanying the advancing troops as Forward Artillery Observer and was actually assisting in the assault. He was unable to gain an advantageous position from which to direct effective supporting artillery fire against the enemy. In the midst of the intense enemy mortar fire Lieutenant Graham found himself without a vehicle due to enemy action. Not willing to let this loss deter him from his important mission he secured another vehicle and sought a new observation post that would offer better opportunity to definitely locate the enemy mortar positions and from which he might attempt to neutralize the enemy fire. While proceeding to the new location his vehicle received a direct hit, wounding Lieutenant Graham and killing his driver. The aggressiveness and gallantry of this resourceful and determined Officer were an inspiration to those who witnessed his daring action, reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Army. Great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Army. Great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Army.