The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Technician Fifth Grade Joseph P. Nee (ASN: 13045292), United States Army, for heroic action in combat on 11 September 1943 near Persano, Italy. When an intense artillery barrage forced his platoon to seek shelter Corporal Nee completed the emplacement of an abandoned machine gun, secured ammunition and prepared to cover the withdrawal of the rest of the troops. Although constantly subjected to intense artillery and small arms fire, Corporal Nee refused to leave his voluntarily assumed post until ordered to do so.