The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Joseph A. Magnant (ASN: 0-2262255), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 September 1950, three miles west of Changyong, Korea. During the early morning hours the third platoon was attacked by a numerically superior force, and was forced to withdraw. The company commander immediately started for the third platoon, with instruction for them to form on the left flank of the company’s position, but was severely wounded and unable to proceed to the withdrawing platoon. Sergeant Magnant without hesitation went forward under the attacking enemy’s fire and reorganized the third platoon. Then placing a group of company headquarters personnel in that area, he effectively closed the gap on the company’s left flank, and stopped the enemy attack completely. His cool and accurate evaluation of the situation, and his indifference to the enemy fire were the determining factors in the repulse of the enemy on this occasion. Sergeant Magnant’s heroism and gallantry in this operation reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions and standards of the military service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Joseph A. Magnant (ASN: 0-2262255), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 25 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kujang-dong, Korea. On that date his company was assigned the mission of attacking an enemy-held hill. During the assault he personally led his platoon in four attacks, gaining a position within 30 yards of the objective. The enemy counterattacked in overwhelming numbers, enveloping the company on both flanks. Lieutenant Magnant withdrew his platoon approximately 75 yards and attempted to hold a defensive position. Under the overwhelming enemy pressure the company’s position soon became untenable and orders were received to effect a withdrawal. During the withdrawal, Lieutenant Magnant, with complete disregard for his personal safety and under extremely heavy hostile fire, brought up the rear of the company, making certain that all wounded were evacuated and that his men maintained a tactical unity. When the company reached the base of the hill another large enemy force was encountered through which the hard-pressed unit had to fight its way. During this action he constantly moved up and down his column, personally directing men through openings in the enemy lines, and guiding the walking wounded to places of safety. As a result of his heroic leadership his company was enabled to effect a coordinated withdrawal without loss of unity. The gallantry displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Magnant reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.