The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Joseph G. Alu (ASN: 33030078), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 2 February, 1945. When his squad was held up by enemy machine gun fire, Sergeant Alu voluntarily crawled forward under a hail of bullets, selected a suitable position for an automatic rifle team, and then crawled back to his squad. Once more he braved the enemy fire to lead the automatic rifle team to the new position. He then deliberately exposed himself to the enemy in order to attract their fire and discover the exact location of their gun. When the Japanese opened fire, he immediately retaliated, killing the enemy gunner with one shot from his rifle. The automatic rifleman killed the remainder of the Japanese squad. Sergeant Alu’s efficient analysis of the situation and his subsequent immediate action, as well as his courage, daring, and willingness to expose himself to enemy fire, resulted in the destruction of the enemy position and enabled his company to continue its advance. 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.