The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Joseph L. P. G. Claing (MCSN: 907084), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism as a Fire Team Leader, serving with Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima, Ryukyu Islands, 28 May 1945. During an attack on a strongly-defended hostile ridge from which heavy mortar and rifle fire was blasting his company, Corporal Claing quickly located the source and volunteered to lead a patrol to engage and destroy the enemy. Leading his small group of men to the rear of the Japanese, he launched a fierce surprise attack, killing twenty of the enemy and demolishing their position. As another emplacement opened fire on the patrol, wounding several of the group, Corporal Claing boldly ran toward the enemy, firing and hurling grenades and, by his alertness in distracting and confusing the enemy, made possible the safe evacuation of the casualties. Fatally wounded by a hostile mortar shell while attempting to rejoin his unit, Corporal Claing, by his courage, initiative and indomitable fighting spirit, had been instrumental not only in accomplishing a hazardous mission but also in effecting the safe return of his patrol, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.