The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Joseph Noel (MCSN: 373806), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Eighteenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas, from 15 June to 3 July 1944. Fighting with determined aggressiveness, Private First Class Noel boldly exposed himself to relentless Japanese fire, repeatedly employing flame thrower and demolitions in order to neutralize the enemy’s position and, with his teammate, accounting for more than one hundred and fifty Japanese casualties. While advancing on another hostile strong point on 3 July, Private First Class Noel was mortally wounded. By his daring initiative and outstanding courage, he contributed essentially to the success of our mission throughout a long and hazardous period on Saipan, and his heroic devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Services. He gallantly gave his life for his country.