The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Medical Administrative Corps) Joseph C. McNeil (ASN: 0-1546839), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 363d Medical Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 15 March 1945, in the vicinity of Eschringen, Germany. While making a reconnaissance, Lieutenant McNeil was attracted by the cries of several soldiers, one of whom was suffering from a partial amputation of the right foot caused by a mine explosion. Without regard for his personal safety, Lieutenant McNeil entered the minefield, administered first aid and assisted in carrying the soldiers from the field, from which three hundred mines were later removed. The bravery and outstanding devotion to duty of Lieutenant McNeil, under hazardous conditions, reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.