The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Joseph S. Nolan (MCSN: 0-9759), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of Company B, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Koromokina River Area, Bougainville, British Solomon Islands, 7 November 1943. With units of his company to maintain adequate contact or to advance through the dense undergrowth rapidly enough to take advantage of barrages fired in preparation for the attack, First Lieutenant Nolan boldly rushed forward within view of the enemy and, calling out the location of the Japanese positions, ordered his unit to charge the hostile defenses. Although he was wounded almost instantly, he had inspired his men to accelerate their advance, close with the enemy and destroy them before their reinforcements could reach the defensive position. By his fearless leadership, daring initiative and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave danger, First Lieutenant Nolan contributed materially to the success of our operations against the ruthless and fanatic enemy on Bougainville, and his courage throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.