The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Joseph R. Simonton, United States Army, for gallantry in action enemy while serving with Troop C, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division in Luzon Province, Philippine Islands, on 22 November 1944. Sergeant Simonton acted as automatic rifleman in a platoon which attacked a well fortified, dug in enemy position on Mount Cabungengen. Early in the assault, when the platoon was pinned down by murderous machine gun and rifle fire, Sergeant Simonton and three other men were given the mission of flanking and knocking out the two enemy pillboxes. In the face of devastating fire they maneuvered around and up to the enemy positions. At this point two of his comrades were mortally wounded. With utter disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Simonton aggressively pushed forward, throwing hand grenades and delivering a heavy barrage of automatic fire, which succeeded in silencing one pillbox. Then, covering the other entrenchment with fire, he skillfully and aggressively worked his way to his two fallen comrades and dragged them to a covered position where they received relief from excruciating pain in their last moments of life. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.