The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Private First Class Joe J. Williams (ASN: RA-39735787), United States Army, for heroic achievement as a member of Company A, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 11 September 1951, in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date during an assault on a heavily fortified enemy-held hill, the advance of Company A was halted by intense fire from well-concealed enemy positions. Private Williams, a gunner of a 57-mm. rifle, with utter disregard for his personal safety, exposed himself to enemy observation in order to direct effective fire upon enemy positions. He succeeded in destroying several enemy bunkers, and inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy. During the ensuing action, Private Williams was painfully wounded by continued firing his weapon until he was evacuated. The heroism in action displayed by Private Williams reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.