The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Joseph L. Bilka (MCSN: 508021), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Platoon Runner of Company C, First Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on 13 March 1945. Volunteering to carry a message when all communications had been cut and after two runners had lost their lives, Private First Class Bilka braved intense enemy machine gun, rifle and mortar fire, delivered the message, and returned through the continuing fire to his post. Later, again exposing himself to enemy fire, he led tanks forward and accurately pointed out enemy emplacements, thereby contributing to their destruction. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.