William J. Boydstun

Lieutenant Colonel, U. S. Army

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, 80th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 6 (January 6, 1945)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) William J. Boydstun (ASNL 0-401562), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 28 November 1944 in France.
In an enemy counterattack, Lieutenant Colonel Boydstun became isolated from his men but withstood rifle fire and hand grenade attacks on his position. With utter disregard for his own safety, he infiltrated through enemy lines to secure and guide tank support for his battalion. The added tank support coupled with the reorganizations Lieutenant Colonel Boydstun effected, successfully routed the enemy. His tactical knowledge, aggressive leadership, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.