HESTER-WILLIAM

Silver Star

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class William W. Hester (MCSN: 2399347), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Company I, Third Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. One the morning of 1 July 1968, Company I's defensive perimeter near the Khe Sanh Combat Base was assaulted by a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force, and after the Marines successfully repulsed the hostile attack, Private First Class Hester's squad was assigned to search the area for any remaining enemy. Suddenly observing a small hostile group, one of the Marines immediately delivered a heavy volume of fire upon the enemy soldiers and exhausted his supply of ammunition. Reacting instantly, Private First Class Hester fearlessly assaulted the hostile unit, killing a North Vietnamese soldier with his M-79 grenade launcher and preventing the remaining enemy from firing upon his defenseless comrade. Disregarding his own safety, he resolutely commenced reloading his weapon and was mortally wounded by hostile fire. Ignoring his painful injuries, he steadfastly remained in his dangerously exposed position and continued firing upon the enemy until he succumbed to his wounds. His bold initiative and resolute determination inspired all who observed his and were instrumental in saving the life of his fellow Marine. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Hester contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit's mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.

Action Date: 1-Jul-68

Service: Marine Corps

Rank: Private First Class

Company: Company I

Battalion: 3d Battalion

Regiment: 4th Marines

Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Submitted by Doug Bewall RMCM USN Ret