The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Joseph R. Porcarelli (ASN: 16089060), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Sangerburg, Czechoslovakia, on 3 May 1945. Sergeant Porcarelli’s patrol encountered strong enemy fire on the outskirts of a small town. Deploying his men in strategic firing positions he then led two men to advantageous flanking positions and, despite intense hostile fire, worked close enough to the enemy to inflict heavy casualties with grenades, and force the surrender of more than 50 German soldiers. He immediately consolidated his defenses in case of a counterattack and dispatched messengers to the company. Sergeant Porcarelli’s gallant actins were of exceedingly great value to the success of his company’s attack. 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 and the United States Army.