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 Technician Fourth Grade Joseph Reno Edmonds (ASN: 20601807), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 24 March 1944. Technician Fourth Grade Edmonds displayed outstanding combat ability during a counterattack against enemy forces who had occupied some key American positions. In the face of strong hostile rifle, machine-gun, and mortar fire, he aided in killing all six occupants of an enemy-held pillbox. He boldly dropped grenades into a trench that was protecting Japanese who had besieged a friendly pillbox, killing twelve. His fearless tenacity and undaunted spirit aided immeasurably in the ultimate defeat of the Japanese in that sector. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fourth Grade Edmonds, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.