Billy D. Harrell

Private 1st Class, U. S. Marine Corps

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 024 (January 25, 1945)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Billy D. Harrell (MCSN: 536900), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu, Palau Islands on 28 September 1944.
Observing a wounded man lying in front of the lines and exposed to enemy fire, Private First Class Harrell unhesitatingly rushed across an area swept by hostile machine gun and rifle fire and promptly administered first aid but, while attempting to remove his helpless comrade to a covered position was himself mortally wounded.
Private First Class Harrell's splendid initiative and unselfish efforts on behalf of another at the risk of his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.