William K. Downing

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to William K. Downing (2201839), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with the Third Platoon of Company E, Second Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, on 3 May 1967. While defending the hill complex south of Hill 881 North near Khe Sanh, Company E was attacked by a determined enemy force. Corporal Downing was ordered to move his fire team into the Second Platoon’s sector. He skillfully and unhesitatingly maneuvered his men into the area of the enemy’s deepest penetration controlling their fire power so that the enemy forward movement was halted. Although wounded in the leg during the initial contact, he continued to direct the fire and movement of his fire team with perception and without regard for his own personal safety, gaining fire superiority and forcing the enemy to withdraw. Refusing medical assistance, he ordered the corpsman to treat others around him while he provided covering fire. Courageously delivering continuous and effective fire upon the enemy forces, he steadfastly remained in his position as the enemy counter-attacked. Having ensured that the last wounded Marine was evacuated, he remained firing from his position. His body was found later with six of the enemy dead around his position. His daring devotion to duty and his selfless concern for his fellow Marines were an inspiration to all those around him. By his exceptional performance of duty and complete disregard for his own safety, Corporal Downing valiantly contributed to the success of the company’s defense. His heroic initiative and courageous actions upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.