Billy Joe Armstrong

1st Lieutenant, U. S. Army

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, 63d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 130 (May 3, 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 First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Billy J. Armstrong (ASN: 0-550341), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 26 January 1945, in the vicinity of Jebsheim, France.
While emplacing a section of heavy machine guns for an attack on a pillbox, Lieutenant Armstrong observed a group of riflemen falter in the face of enemy fire. Without hesitation, he took command and, rallying them, led them in an assault which took the bunkers and pillbox and opened the way for the assault on the town. He continued to lead them until wounded.
The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Lieutenant Armstrong reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.