The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Walter Josefiak (MCSN: 832792), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of the Third War Dog Platoon, Military Police Company, Headquarters Battalion, THIRD Marine Division, temporarily serving as a Rifleman with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 22 March 1945. Acting as point on a patrol when his war dog alerted to an enemy ambush, Private First Class Josefiak advanced into a cave to find a Japanese soldier concealed within. Engaging in hand-to-hand combat when his rifle jammed, he overpowered and killed the soldier before continuing his vigilant patrol. Again warned by his dog, he discovered and killed a Japanese officer and, subsequently coming upon a cave occupied by seven of the enemy, instantly attacked, and succeeded in killing one and wounding another. Although wounded in the fierce fighting that followed, he refused to be evacuated, ordering his corpsman to remain under cover until the patrol and annihilated the remaining Japanese. As aggressive and indomitable fighter, Private First Class Josefiak, by his cool courage, fearless initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, upheld throughout the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.