The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Joseph F. Barsano (ASN: 36716478), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the Philippine Islands, on 12 April 1945. When an element of his battalion was isolated from the main body by a band of enemy fire near Salat, Private First Class Barsano was assigned the mission of delivering overlays outlining the tactical situation and the safest route for reinforcements to the regimental command post. He safely maneuvered through the hostile fire, and then made his way over mountainous terrain through uncharted forests and a muddy creek bed for a mile and a half to successfully reach the regimental command post. Private First Class Barsano then courageously returned to the beleaguered troops with vital signal instructions over the same hazardous route, although he was advised not to attempt the task because of approaching darkness and continued Japanese resistance. Private First Class Barsano’s outstanding devotion to duty exemplified the highest traditions of military service and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.