The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Joseph J. Ondre (ASN: 0-1011835), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 6 June 1944, in France. During the assault landing on the Normandy Beach, the tank commanded by Captain Ondre was suck while its crew was endeavoring to transfer it from the landing craft to the beach. Captain Ondre swam to the shore despite intense enemy artillery and small arms fire and, obtaining another tank, assumed command of a company. In the face of fierce enemy fire, Captain Ondre led his tanks against he defenses and destroyed several enemy gun positions overlooking the beach. At the end of a battle which lasted sixteen hours, Captain Ondre successfully forced an exit from the beach and led his company inland. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Ondre, 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.