William L. Turner

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to William L. Turner (0-22054), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 7 June 1944, in France. Lieutenant Colonel turner’s battalion was halted by stubborn enemy resistance. He immediately went forward of his column, entered one of the tanks supporting his battalion and personally directed the fire of the tank. His accurate direction of this fire destroyed the enemy position and enabled his battalion to move forward, however, while directing the attack from this position he was killed by enemy fire. Lieutenant Colonel Turner’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.