William Gleason

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William Gleason (0-23956), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while Commanding the 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 16 April 1952, Companies A and B were occupying defensive positions near Majon-ni, Korea, when they were subjected to an intense hail of enemy artillery and mortar fire. In order to give counter fire directions, Colonel Gleason unhesitatingly left his position of comparative safety and moved among his men, shouting words of encouragement and directing friendly fire on suspected enemy observation points. As the enemy barrage increased in intensity the men became disorganized and ceased their firing. Colonel Gleason, completely oblivious to the deadly fire, remained in an exposed position, urging his men to fire on the enemy positions. Inspired by his fearless actions the men assumed the initiative and laid down a withering hail of automatic weapons and small arms fire which drove the enemy from their positions. Colonel Gleason’s outstanding gallantry and unwavering determination reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.