The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) (Posthumously) to Private Joseph W. Burt, Jr. (MCSN: 4033080), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for gallantry in action on 23 January 1943, while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, at Guadalcanal. With complete disregard to his own safety, Private Burt voluntarily attempted to carry a stretcher to a wounded Marine through heavy enemy machine gun fire from positions to his front and rear. The courage displayed in making the supreme sacrifice reflects great credit on Private Burt and the military service.