William J. Rogers

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William J. Rogers (11083935), Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant], U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 10 March 1945. Staff Sergeant Rogers left a protected position to rescue members of a tank crew. The tank had been knocked out by enemy fire and immediately burst into flames. Sergeant Rogers, without consideration for his own safety, exposed himself to the enemy fire to effect the rescue. His deed was further complicated by the exploding, stowed ammunition. His courage and heroism were beyond the call of duty and reflect credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.