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 Fifth Grade Joseph P. Pokorny (ASN: 37271976), 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 29 October 1944, in Germany. When a direct hit by an enemy shell set fire to one o f the unit’s trucks, imperiling the lives of twelve men sleeping in an adjacent cellar, Technician Fifth Grade Pokorny acted without hesitation. He saw that there was another truck with a full load of gasoline only a few feet from the flaming vehicle, and despite the intense heat from the fire and artillery bursting in the direct vicinity, he dashed to the gasoline truck and drove it out of danger. Technician Fifth Grade Pokorny’s quick thinking and courageous action prevented the truck from exploding and trapping his companions. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fifth Grade Pokorny, 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.