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 Joseph H. Cecelich (ASN: 20502104), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 18 and 19 February 1945. During an attack on enemy-held buildings in Manila, Sergeant Cecelich, a mortar observer, established a forward observation post in a building within 60 yards of hostile emplacements in order to obtain an advantageous position for directing mortar fire. He dashed down a corridor of the building, fully exposed to enemy observation and fire, to carry wire and establish communication with his unit. Intense hostile fire prevented our troops from occupying that portion of the building in which Sergeant Cecelich’s post was located, but he remained alone on duty continuously for two days and nights, under almost constant Japanese fire, directing mortar fire with great skill and effectiveness on the enemy emplacements. Sergeant Cecelich’s gallant efforts contributed in a large measure to the eventual success of the attack. 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.