William Regas

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William Regas (0-26574), Major [then Captain], U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 18 July 1952. As a Forward Air Controller, Major Regas volunteered to fly an artillery spotting mission with a Marine Observation Squadron. Assigned the mission of locating a downed friendly aircraft, he courageously flew his plane at a dangerously low altitude and made two passes over the area to make a positive identification and search for signs of life. When the observer accompanying him was unable to identify the downed aircraft, he, although subjected to intense enemy anti-aircraft fire, unhesitatingly took his plane down even lower. Receiving fire from all directions, Major Regas held the plane at this low altitude, enabling the observer to thoroughly search for signs of life. He then continued to circle the area and called for artillery fire which would encompass the downed plane and protect the occupants, if still there, from the enemy. Only after friendly fighter aircraft arrived did he return to his base. Major Regas’ fearless actions and indomitable spirit were an inspiration to all who observed him. His courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.