The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Joseph D. Taylor, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 11 February 1945. During an assault river crossing, Sergeant Taylor saw a soldier fall in midstream, seriously wounded by enemy fire. He immediately plunged into the river under the heavy hostile fire, and although twice wounded himself, succeeded in dragging the injured man to safety. His extraordinary courage inspired all members of his company throughout the engagement. 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.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Joseph D. Taylor, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the Pacific Theater of Operations in 1943. 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.