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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) William J. Garry (ASN: 0-1298693), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 21 September 1944, at ****, Holland. First Lieutenant Garry, Executive Officer, Company H, 3d Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, led a combat patrol from **** to **** on the Dutch-German frontier. His mission was to determine the strength of enemy forces known to be in positions around ****. The patrol encountered strong German resistance in this vicinity, but fought its way almost to the town. Having accomplished his mission, First Lieutenant Garry began to withdraw his patrol. Determined counterattacks by maneuvering groups attempted to block the withdrawal. At one point the patrol was completely encircled, but First Lieutenant Garry directed a sudden thrust which broke through and the enemy gave pursuit. First Lieutenant Garry fell to the rear of his escaping group and covered their withdrawal with a brisk rear guard action. He successfully delayed the attacking enemy until the patrol had opportunity to move away. He began to fall back continually engaging the Germans and delaying their attacks. When it became evident that the patrol would make good its escape, the enemy caused pursuit and concentrated mortars within the area. By his determined effort First Lieutenant Garry was able to penetrate a well defended enemy strong point and secure information which enabled us to plan our later attack upon ***. His willingness to place himself between the enemy and his retiring patrol was directly responsible for the safe return of his men. In this final action, First Lieutenant Garry was mortally wounded. 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.