The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Joseph P. Hyland (MCSN: 469726), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Squad Leader serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division during action on enemy Japanese held Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands from 21 February to 10 March 1945. Throughout the Iwo Jima campaign, Corporal Hyland constantly served as an inspiration to his unit, both by his extreme courage and his willingness to expose himself repeatedly to enemy fire so that he might encourage his men and gain their confidence. On 10 March, while advancing on what had previously been proved a death trap, he proceeded alone beyond the front lines to enable his squad to approach in safety a Japanese fortification and was mortally wounded by hostile fire. Isolated and in critical condition, he refrained from shouting or signaling for assistance, electing to sacrifice his own life rather than endanger his comrades. His outstanding leadership and spirit of self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Hyland and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.