The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Joseph W. Reisler (MCSN: 0-49608), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Leader of Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 9 March 1951. When three heavily defended enemy pillboxes impeded the entire company advance during an assault on a hill near Hoengsong, Second Lieutenant Reisler boldly led an attack against the strong points in the face of intense hostile automatic weapons fire and completely routed the enemy from their positions. After clearing the objective, he skillfully deployed his rifle squads and accurately controlled their fire while continuing to maneuver the platoon up the ridge line, thereby eliminating eleven more enemy bunkers which were menacing his company. By his daring leadership and aggressive fighting spirit, he served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of the operation. Second Lieutenant Reisler’s marked courage, professional competence and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.