The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Joe R. Marez (ASN: RA-18253645), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 15 February 1951, near Chipyong-ni, Korea. On that date he was gunner for a 60-mm. mortar squad with the mission of supporting an infantry unit at Chipyong-ni. During this action the unit was subjected to heavy enemy fire which caused the assistant gunner and ammunition bearer to be severely wounded and evacuated. Sergeant Marez, although wounded, remained in position alone and continued to fire the mortar, giving much needed support to his unit’s advance. His courageous action was instrumental in inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy and in enabling the friendly unit to accomplish it’s mission. The gallant conduct of Sergeant Marez on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service.