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 (Chaplain’s Corps) William Vincent O’Connor, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a chaplain with the 31st Infantry Division, in action in Dutch New Guinea, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, on 29 August 1944. Chaplain O’Connor Voluntarily and with utter disregard for his own personal safety, rushed to the aid of a wounded enlisted man, administered first aid, and withdrew him to cover under heavy enemy fire. His words of encouragement and calmness throughout the entire operation was an inspiration to all. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Chaplain O’Connor, 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.