The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Joseph V. D. Rivard (MCSN: 409107), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Radio Operator of a Forward Observer Party serving with the Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, from 15 to 25 June 1944. Although wounded by a withering barrage of enemy mortar fire, Corporal Rivard courageously remained at his radio set and continued to maintain a vital communication system until our assault was completed and the hostile mortars silenced. Steadfastly refusing to be evacuated, he discharged his essential duties with outstanding technical skill until a sudden burst of Japanese fire inflicted a second critical wound which later proved fatal. Corporal Rivard’s great personal valor and resolute devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.