The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Philip Y. H. Joe, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Platoon Sergeant with a company of the 15th Armored Infantry Battalion, 5th Armored Division, in action against the enemy during the attack on Munchen-Gladbach, in the Hurtgen Forest, in December 1944. Concentrated fire from German 88 and 20 millimeter guns halted the tanks and halftracks as they moved in toward the city. Deciding that the artillery fire was being directed from a house 100 yards away, Technical Sergeant Joe and one of his squad leaders moved up to the building. While his companion provided covering fire, Technical Sergeant Joe entered the house, capturing 40 Germans, and three radio transmitters and several telephones. With the enemy observation post captured, the artillery fire ceased and the Division’s forces were able to continue the attack on the strategic city without difficulty. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Joe, 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.