The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Joseph Canova (ASN: 34155537), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 8 May 1945. When his platoon commander was killed during an attack against Hill B, Balete Pass, Staff Sergeant Canova took command, and courageously led his men in an assault which drove the enemy from their positions. When the foe counterattacked that night, Staff Sergeant Canova again exposed himself to the fierce enemy fire in order to procure a supply of hand grenades. Then, he inched his way forward to deliver the grenades to his men in the foremost positions, enabling them to stave off the attack. Two days later Staff Sergeant Canova was fatally wounded while leading a patrol against the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Canova, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Private First Class] Joseph Canova (ASN: 34155537), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 20 February 1945. Although subjected to heavy enemy machine gun and rifle fire from a distance of only 40 yards to the flank, Private Canova dashed into an open street, hoisted a wounded comrade onto his back, and carried him 100 yards to a position of safety. Private Canova’s high courage and complete selflessness saved the life of his comrade, and the brave act was an inspiration to all who witnessed it. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.