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 (Coast Artillery Corps) Joseph A. Macnak (ASN: 0-35164092), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the Coast Artillery Corps, in action in Italy, in January 1944. During the attempted crossing of a river in Italy, Captain Macnak exposed himself to enemy fire to administer first aid to several wounded Infantrymen. He made several forward reconnaissances under fire to supervise emplacements of two guns and stop other guns and personnel from moving into proposed positions because of the increased enemy artillery and mortar fire. When the intense barrage drove him to cover hw was informed by an Infantry soldier that two of his men had been wounded seriously about 200 yards forward. He crawled through an open area, exposing himself to the enemy to aid the two wounded men, only to find them dead. His action was an inspiration to his men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.