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) Joseph D. Lyons (ASN: 0-13066116), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against the enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action at Luzon, Philippine Islands on 4 February 1945. During an advance along a railroad, an assault platoon received sporadic rifle and machine gun fire from the left flank. Lieutenant Lyons, a Platoon Commander moved with one squad in the general direction of an enemy machine gun, and as they approached a commanding position of observation they were met with heavy machine gun and rifle fire which forced most of the squad to take cover. Despite the enemy’s heavy fire, Lieutenant Lyons boldly crawled ahead to an observation point affording slight cover and succeeded in determining the location of the hostile machine gun. Crawling back under a hail of enemy bullets, Lieutenant Lyons relayed the information to his men, then proceeded to deploy the platoon in preparation for the assault. Lieutenant Lyons was mortally wounded while engaged in directing and leading the attack. However, his indomitable courage and bold leadership resulted in the elimination of the enemy gun, leaving four of the enemy dead. 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.