The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fourth Grade Josephus Leonard (ASN: 20408684), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 197th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 15 July 1944, in France. Technician Fourth Grade Leonard was assigned to duty with a field artillery unit, serving in the capacity of radio operator with a forward observation party. When the equipment of the forward observer was lost as a result of enemy action, Technician Fourth Grade Leonard voluntarily carried replacements through heavy artillery and mortar fire to the observer. He accomplished this act with full realization as to the hazards of crossing a dangerous terrain, constantly under heavy fire from enemy gun positions. The heroic devotion to duty and great personal courage displayed by Technician Fourth Grade Leonard reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.