Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company M, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army (Company M, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant William Shapiro, O-1312344 (then second lieutenant), Infantry, United States Army, for heroic service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States near *** [Lutrebois], Belgium on 31 December 1944. Lieutenant Shapiro directed the fire and movement of his machine gun platoon in support of a rifle company holding defensive positions in the vicinity of *** [Lutrebois]. A powerful enemy attack, supported by armor, forced the rifle company to withdraw. Lieutenant Shapiro maintain his platoon in position for more than an hour, displaying a high order of personal bravery and inspiring his troops to withstand three sharp attacks. Only when the pressure of numerically superior enemy forces endangered his flank did Lieutenant Shapiro order a withdrawal, which he directed with such consummate skill that all members of his platoon reached the new position with their weapons and equipment. Lieutenant Shapiro’s cool-headed actions honor his character as an officer and leader of men.
Entered military service from New Jersey.

Headquarters 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 13 (20 February 1945).

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company M, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army

For wounds received in action on 1 January 1945 in the Ardennes, Belgium.

Headquarters 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 49 (25 June 1945).