Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Sergeant

Unit:

116th Infantry Regiment (116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division "Blue and Gray" U.S. Army)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to William Marvin Presley (33147994), First Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. As First Sergeant Presley, whose small unit had been cut off by the heavy enemy fire, was attempting to make contact with the main body, he encountered an enemy strong point and artillery observation post on the top of a cliff. Placing his men where they could bring fire on the enemy, Sergeant Presley set out for the beach to contact Naval Shore Fire Control Party and led the Party to a position from which they could direct their fire. First Sergeant Presley remained in an exposed position to cover the Party while they were directing their fire. The gallantry, initiative and leadership exhibited by First Sergeant Presley exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 29th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.


HQ First U.S. Army, GO 29 June 29th 1944