The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Joseph Placenti (ASN: 42063621), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 17 April 1945, in the vicinity of Rublingen, Germany. When his platoon leader was mortally wounded, Private Placenti, although under heavy enemy fire succeeded in bringing the wounded officer to safety. Before the wounded officer died from his wounds, Private Placenti learned of the approximate locations of the enemy machine gun. Without regard for his own safety, he made his way towards the enemy gun, and with two rifle grenades and rifle fire succeeded in killing the enemy gunner and two others. Observed in his emplacement, he was fatally wounded by an enemy sniper. The gallant action and outstanding devotion to duty of Private Placenti reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the Armed Forces of the United States.