The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Joy A. McDonald (ASN: 0-1317649), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against the enemy near ****, Belgium, on 25 January 1945. While leading a four man reconnaissance patrol which was cut off and surrounded by a large armed force of enemy, First Lieutenant McDonald unhesitatingly left his position and crawled to within ten feet of an enemy machine gun position and knocked it out by throwing hand grenades. He then charged down upon another large force of enemy, firing from the hip and throwing hand grenades. His men were so inspired by his heroic action that they followed First Lieutenant McDonald’s example and charged the enemy. During the ensuing fire fight, five enemy were killed and eighteen were forced to surrender. The information brought back by First Lieutenant McDonald was instrumental in the success of the battalion. His actions were an inspiration to his men and a credit to the Airborne Forces.