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 F. Ognibene (ASN: 32900486), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Engineer Combat Battalion, in action on 10 September 1944 and 7 December 1944 in France and Germany. During operations under fire Private First Class Ognibene has displayed unusual courage. When enemy artillery struck a raft operated by his platoon on the Moselle River at Arnaville, France, on 10 September 1944, he voluntarily exposed himself to the continuous barrage in order to evacuate all casualties. On 7 December 1944, when his platoon was pinned down by enemy fire on the Saar River at Lisderft, Germany, he voluntarily exposed himself and drew the enemy fire until his platoon withdrew to safety. The actions of Private First Class Ognibene reflect the highest credit on his character as a soldier and upon the military service.