The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joel Lichtman (ASN: 0-1315876), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. During the advance up Mount Pacawagan on 24 April 1945 Lieutenant Lichtman’s platoon was brought under intense enemy artillery, mortar, rifle an machine gun fire. He immediately moved forward and crawled from position to position, leading his men in the fight against the enemy. Near the right flank of his platoon he noticed a wounded man lying on a small knoll completely exposed to hostile fire. Lieutenant Lichtman immediately left his covered position and dashed toward the injured man. He was fatally wounded just five yards short of the casualty. Lieutenant Lichtman sacrificed his life in a heroic attempt to save a wounded comrade. 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.