The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Joseph B. Churchill, United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 116th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action in Normandy, France. On 6 June 1944, Sergeant Churchill and his squad landed on the beaches of France under a withering barrage of enemy fire of all calibers. Despite seemingly insurmountable hardships, Sergeant Churchill led his men across the fire-swept beach to positions on the high cliff overlooking the beach. At this point when the platoon was pinned down by enemy machine gun and sniper fire, he reached his destination and contacted friendly troops. While leading them forward, Sergeant Churchill was seriously wounded by enemy artillery fire. The outstanding leadership, courage, and unselfish devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Churchill reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Service.