The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Joseph G. Teeters, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 1 August 1943. During operations, when the preceding platoon of an infantry company was halted and disorganized due to loss of its leader and several noncommissioned officers, Sergeant Teeters went forward into the face of intense hostile fire on his own initiative and assumed command. Under his leadership contact with units on the flanks was established and the reorganized platoon advanced in an attack to successfully rout the enemy. Thus, by his personal courage and aggressive action at a crucial moment Sergeant Teeters contributed materially to the accomplishment of the company’s mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.