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 Wakamatsu (ASN: 39913345), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, in action against the enemy , in France, on 31 October 1944. When six riflemen of Company L were wounded by a direct hit from an enemy self-propelled gun, Private First Class Wakamatsu, though himself seriously wounded, went to their aid. He quickly treated and evacuated one of the injured and, disregarding the continued heavy barrage laid down by the enemy and his own painful leg wound, returned a second and third time to successfully remove the stricken men. Only after being assured that all had been properly treated did he allow himself to be given first aid and evacuated. By his courage, initiative, and devotion to duty, Private First Class Wakamatsu contributed greatly to the quick treatment of his fellow soldiers and reflects credit upon the armed forces of the United States.