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 R. Burge (ASN: 33646738), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. On 8 February 1945, when intense enemy mortar and machine gun fire was being delivered on a company advancing against the Gas Works in Manila, three men were wounded and lay in an exposed position. Private Burge and three companions voluntarily formed a rescue team. Planning the course of action well in advance, they moved by rushes to within 50 yards of the casualties. Then, as the other three men kept him covered, Private Burge rushed over open terrain to one of the wounded men and dragged him back to cover, although fully exposed to the hostile fire which was concentrated on the area. In this manner, all three wounded men were dragged to safety. Private Burge’s initiative and courage helped save his three comrades from almost certain death. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.