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 Forney (ASN: 0-1290226), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 13 August 1950, Lieutenant Forney led an assault force which eliminated two enemy machine gun emplacements and secured an important ridge in the vicinity of Tae Jong-ni, Korea. When hostile forces counterattacked early the following morning, he moved about the company positions, heedless of he intense concentrations of enemy fire, inspiring his men and directing their fire. Although wounded three times during the engagement, he declined evacuation until the position had been secured. Lieutenant Forney’s conspicuous courage, exemplary leadership and selfless devotion to his men exemplify the highest traditions of the United States Army.