The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) William D. Hightower (ASN: 0-1179097), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the *** Field Artillery Battalion, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy from 14 to 19 November 1944, in France. One Battalion of the *** Infantry Regiment was isolated from the Regiment and completely surrounded by the enemy in the vicinity of Ft. Jeanne d’Arc. It was impossible to supply these troops by means of normal supply methods because all roads leading to this Battalion were either held by the enemy or were under intense enemy fire. All attempts at such means of supply were unsuccessful and resulted in heavy losses. The Liaison Planes of the *** Field Artillery Battalion, operating with those of the 95th Division Artillery were called upon to supply this isolated Battalion. Lieutenant Hightower flew food, ammunition, and other supplies to the troops of this Battalion on nine separate occasions. On each flight it was necessary for Lieutenant Hightower to fly in at tree-top level where, upon each occasion, he was fired upon by enemy small arms fire. Enemy riflemen stood up in the foxholes to fire upon Lieutenant Hightower’s plane on several occasions. It was entirely due to the gallantry of Lieutenant Hightower and the other pilots and observers concerned that this Battalion was able to hold out until relieved by the 95th Division. 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.