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 Clayton Reaser (ASN: 0-1293114), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 22 November 1944, in Germany. Captain Reaser was Commanding Officer of an Infantry Company in a bitter engagement with the enemy, during which it suffered some casualties. When it became necessary to withdraw to a better defensive position, he elected to remain with the wounded in order to supervise their evacuation. Although subjected to intense mortar and artillery fire and in direct view of one enemy tank about three hundred and fifty yards away which fired continually on his position, Captain Reaser successfully evacuated all his wounded men to positions of safety where they could be given medical treatment. His calm and decisive action in the face of great danger resulted in the saving of the lives of the wounded men and was a source of inspiration to the other members of his company. The bravery, aggressive determination, and exemplary leadership exhibited by Captain Reaser reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.