The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Joe J. Jaquess (MCSN: 288703), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Fire Team Leader with the Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Peleliu Island, Palau Group, on 6 October 1944. Bravely exposing himself to shattering enemy fire which had pinned down the remainder of his platoon and temporarily halted their advance, Corporal Jaquess, valiantly disregarding his own personal safety, rushed up the side of a steep slope to rescue a wounded comrade, whom he picked up and carried through a hail of hostile rifle and machine-gun fire to a place of comparative safety where he administered first aid. An aggressive and determined fighter, Corporal Jaquess was killed 11 October 1944, while vigorously participating in the attack on a strongly defended enemy hill. His cool courage and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.