William J. Gilwee, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William J. Gilwee, Jr. (0-53548), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 23 December 1952. Serving as a Platoon Commander, First Lieutenant Gilwee displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While leading a combat patrol forward of the main line of resistance, he established contact with the enemy and was subjected to a devastating barrage of mortar and small arms fire. Although painfully wounded almost immediately he refused treatment and attempted to call friendly supporting fires on the enemy weapons. Again he was wounded and as a result of the action, several of his men had also become casualties. Despite the extreme pain resulting from his wounds, he ordered and directed the tactical withdrawal under fire and personally remained behind until he had assured himself that all of his men were on their way to the main lines. When the patrol reached the main line of resistance, he made certain that t he wounded men were given immediate treatment before he would accept personal aid. First Lieutenant Gilwee’s gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.