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 (Infantry), [then Staff Sergeant] William D. Sachse (ASN: 0-1997765), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 3d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 15 December 1943, on Hill 950 near ****, Italy. After leading his platoon through a heavily mined area on Hill 950, Second Lieutenant Sachse went forward alone into the enemy lines. While returning to his men, he found himself completely cut off and surrounded by the enemy. Second Lieutenant Sachse fought his way through the encircling ring of enemy, killing and wounding many, and returned safely to his men with invaluable information as to the enemy’s plan of attack. His platoon was able to inflict very heavy casualties on the enemy before they were forced to withdraw because of lack of ammunition. Second Lieutenant Sachse’s great courage and aggressive leadership typifies the best traditions of the American Parachute Officer.