The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Joseph D. Alexander (ASN: 0-300475), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 3d Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 8 November 1944. During the successful attack against very determined enemy forces established in pillboxes, bunkers, and reinforced basements of buildings before and in the town of ****, Colonel Alexander, Commanding Officer of the 3d Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, exhibited exceptional gallantry and intrepidity in leading his battalion to a successful conclusion of the action. In order to direct operations in the most effective manner possible, he chose for his battalion observation post an prominent point on the edge of the **** Forest that was subjected to extremely heavy shelling throughout the attack by 88-mm. direct fire and 150-mm. artillery pieces. Despite the constant danger from bursting shells which inflicted heavy casualties, Colonel Alexander remained in this area and directed the action of his troops against the bitter resistance offered by the enemy. He maneuvered his units so skillfully that the town was entered by strong elements just prior to darkness. On the following morning, with the enemy still occupying a portion of the town, he mounted a passing tank and rode into the town to direct the completion of its capture, remaining with his troops until the enemy had been expelled or destroyed, and ninety-nine prisoners captured. These gallant and inspiring actions are such as to reflect high credit upon Colonel Alexander, his unit and the military service and are in keeping with the best traditions of the Armed Forces.