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) Joseph C. Elinski (ASN: 0-1322852), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 8 October 1944, while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in Germany. While serving as a Platoon Leader with an Infantry Company engaged in an attack toward an enemy-held village, Lieutenant Elinski observed that the assault elements of his company were pinned down by enemy fire. With complete disregard for the personal hazards involved, Lieutenant Elinski went out amidst heavy artillery, mortar, and small arms fire to assemble several friendly tanks and directed them to the aid of his comrades. With tanks supporting them, and inspired by Lieutenant Elinski’s display of courage and determined leadership, the troops rallied and in the ensuing attack, the enemy was forced to withdraw. His gallant actions materially aided his company in successfully reaching their objective. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Elinski, 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.