The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Boatswain Joseph Valentine Kaspar, United States Navy, for gallantry in action while acting as coxswain of a landing craft during the invasion of Makin Atoll, 20 November 1943. Boatswain Kaspar boldly led an assault against two old hulks beached offshore from which a deadly stream of enemy fire was coming. Although he lost his life during the bitter engagement, his daring initiative and fighting spirit contributed materially to the success of our operations. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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 Naval Service.