Wlllard J. D. Lilly

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Wlllard J. D. Lilly (6944198), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 5307 Composite Unit (Provisional) (Task Force Galahad), in action against enemy forces on 14 June 1944, in Burma. Private First Class Lilly was in charge of a heavy machinegun squad which was receiving heavy enemy fire from a well-concealed enemy machine gun position. Unable to answer fire, with his platoon sergeant, he crawled out of the perimeter into murderous enemy machinegun cross-fire. After his platoon sergeant was severely wounded, he continued to advance into the enemy position and succeeded in destroying the machinegun and crew with hand grenades and pistol. Private First Class Lilly’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.