William F. Deane

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William F. Deane (K-100037), Major (Field Artillery), U.S. Cost and Geodetic Survey, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 291st Field Artillery Observation Battalion, 78th Infantry Division, on 7 April 1945 in the vicinity of Schellenburg, Germany. Major Deane, on a reconnaissance mission within the town of Schellenburg, Germany, was fired upon by snipers. After clearing the source of the fire, he received fire from another building. Under heavy enemy fire, he entered on two occasions and forced fifty enemy soldiers to surrender. Intense rifle and artillery fire prevented his bringing the prisoners out into the open. His bold leadership and aggressive actions are in accordance with the highest military traditions.