William T. Glass

Colonel, U. S. Marine Corps

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 101474
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major William T. Glass (MCSN: 0-6405), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands from 6 to 10 March 1945.
Assuming command of the First Battalion which had been depleted by casualties to twenty-five percent of its effective personnel, Major Glass reorganized it while in contact with the enemy and launched a pre-dawn attack on the following day. Ordered to execute a sweeping flank movement with his Battalion and clear the way for further advance on 10 March, he personally reconnoitered terrain which was continually swept by hostile fire and led the advance of troops.
Surprising the Japanese and effectively penetrating the hostile lines, he insured a continuation of the advance of assault troops with a minimum of casualties. By his aggressive leadership and courageous conduct throughout, he contributed immeasurably to the defeat of the enemy in a strategic stronghold, and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.