The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Joseph C. Hooper (ASN: 35497210), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 188th Glider Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on 25 February 1945, in Southern Luzon, Philippine Islands. Sergeant Hooper moved forward in the face of intense machine gun and mortar fire to an exposed position within 50 yards of the Japanese pillboxes his regiment was attacking, and directed mortar fire against the enemy gunners. Although exposed to the Japanese fire, he continued to direct the mortar gunners until he was mortally wounded. The great courage, daring initiative and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Hooper exemplify the highest traditions of the United States military service.