The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Joseph W. Welc (ASN: 33430387), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 187th Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on 21 February 1945 in the Philippine Islands. During an attack against the enemy, the company of which Sergeant Welc was a member was pinned down by heavy enemy machine gun fire and suffered numerous casualties. In order to evacuate the wounded and hold the ground gained, it was necessary to place friendly supporting fire from heavy weapons on the enemy. To accomplish this Sergeant Welc moved forward over fire-swept terrain and reconnoitered the area to locate a firing position for his machine gun. Placing his weapon into action, he poured a devastating fire into the enemy position. As a result of his heroic action the enemy fire was neutralized sufficiently to enable the wounded to be evacuated and to permit the company to resume its attack. Before reinforcements could reach his position the intrepid soldier was mortally wounded. The great courage, daring initiative and zealous devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Welc was an inspiration to his unit and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.