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 A. Morris (ASN: 32390810), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. During an attack against an enemy-held hill west of Fort Stotsenburg on 29 January 1945, Private Morris’ company was held up by heavy enemy machine gun and rifle fire. While taking cover, Private Morris saw his platoon leader fall wounded in an exposed position to the front. He immediately ran through the intense hostile fire to his officer’s side and administered first aid. He then helped carry the casualty back over ground on which two other men of his platoon had just been wounded. After the evacuation had been completed, Private Morris returned to his unit and assisted in the removal of the other two injured men. His courageous actions saved the life of his platoon leader, and materially aided the recovery of two comrades. 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.