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 J. Kerrigan (ASN: 6135468), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 12 July 1943, five miles west of ****. Private Kerrigan, together with other men from Headquarters Company, participated in an attack on a strong point held by one battalion of the **** Division reinforced by *** tanks. Private Kerrigan did attack and affect casualties on members of the *** tank that was being used as a pill box, thus enabling his unit to continue its offensive against strong enemy positions. In this gallant action, Private Kerrigan lost his life. 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.