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 Staff Sergeant Joe W. Mastel (ASN: 37089876), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Anti-Tank Company, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 9 January 1945 near Hatten, France. Unable to move his 57-mm. anti-tank gun into firing position due to its particular mission, Sergeant Mastel went to the aid of two other guns and helped to direct their fire against enemy tanks and to pass ammunition to the gunner. While in an exposed position, he was injured by shrapnel in seven different places but still directed fire against the enemy from a kneeling position. Although mortally wounded he was personally responsible for the destruction of two enemy tanks by his indomitable gallantry.