The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Joseph E. Lambert (MCSN: 350595), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Section Leader in a Demolition Squad of Company L, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 1 June 1945. Vigilant and aggressive as his squad moved in to reinforce a break in the line where the Japanese had infiltrated and occupied a heavily fortified cave, Corporal Lambert quickly armed himself with a satchel charge and voluntarily crept up to destroy the strategic hostile emplacement. Disregarding the surrounding heavy machine-gun fire, he succeeded in placing the demolition charge and in sealing the cave, thereby killing many of the enemy. Although wounded as he was returning to his unit, Corporal Lambert, by his daring initiative and courage in the face of grave danger, had contributed materially to the strength of his company’s defense during a critical stage of the action. His inspiring conduct and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.