The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class [then Private] William F. Begenwald (ASN: 33702109), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 19 August 1944, Private First Class Begenwald braved enemy shell and small arms fire and rushed to the rescue of twenty-two American and French soldiers wounded in an open field near Hyeres, France. For a period of four hours, during which time artillery shells burst as close as 30 yards from him and small arms fire at 300 yards range hit less than a yard away, he administered first aid to a total of twenty-two casualties. By his courageous work under fire, Private First Class Begenwald undoubtedly saved the lives of many of the 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.