The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Joseph M. Brent (MCSN: 0-48879), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the Third Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 April 1951. When his unit was subjected to intense and accurate enemy mortar fire during a tank-infantry patrol, First Lieutenant Brent, serving as a Forward Observer, made his way to an exposed position and called in effective artillery fire upon the hostile concentrations. Although painfully wounded, he continued to move from one exposed position to another, observing and directing the artillery. The ensuing fire was so effective that the enemy, after being forced to abandon their positions, exposed themselves to the direct fire of artillery and the patrol and thereby suffered heavy casualties. By his inspiring courage, resolute determination and gallant devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Brent contributed materially to the success of the patrol and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.