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 Joseph E. Hill (ASN: 6925949), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 10 January 1943. Sergeant Hill, serving as a platoon sergeant, was located on the slope of a hill which was being shelled by enemy mortar fire. During the mortar barrage an officer located in a slit trench near Sergeant Hill’s position was wounded by a mortar shell fragment. Sergeant Hill left his shelter and exposed himself to enemy fire in order to proceed to the position of the wounded officer to render first aid. As Sergeant Hill bent over the officer to render first aid, an enemy shell made a direct hit on Sergeant Hill, killing him instantly. His gallant display of courage which shielded this officer from the effects of the mortar burst, are an outstanding example of devotion to duty, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.