Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company K, 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division "Tough 'Ombres", U.S. Army (Company K, 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division "Tough 'Ombres", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant William J. Henry, 0461526. Company K, 358th Infantry, 90th Division, United States Army.
For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in France. On July 3 1944, Company “K”, 3rd Battalion 358th Infantry was attacking south in the vicinity of Les Sablons, France, when they were stopped by extremely heavy enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire. Lieutenant Henry, heavy weapons platoon leader, went forward under fire with a sound-powered telephone to adjust the fire of his platoon. As he reached the hedge from which he was to observe he was severely wounded by enemy mortar and small arms fire. Despite these wounds he stayed at his position directing fire, with complete disregard for his own safety, and would not accept evacuation until his mission was accomplished.
The conspicuous gallantry of Lieutenant Henry and his courageous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military service of the United States.

Posthumously awarded.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 89 (1944).