Joph Ito

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Joph Ito (39003716), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company G, 2d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 36th Infantry Division, on 17 October 1944, near Bruyeres, France. During a fierce enemy attack, the first platoon of Company G was subjected to intense sniper, machine gun and artillery fire which seriously wounded five soldiers. Private First Class Ito, as an Aid Man attached to the first platoon, exposing himself to the terrific hostile fire, left his covered position in a draw and ran one hundred and fifty yards across open terrain to the aid of the injured men. While administering first aid to one of the soldiers, Private First Class Ito was severely wounded in the back. Despite his painful wounds, he remained with the injured men for over five hours, constantly exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire. The complete disregard for personal safety displayed by Private First Class Ito reflects great credit upon himself and contributed materially toward saving his comrades’ lives.