Silver Star group (Pvt Joseph A. Wozniak, 168th Inf, 34th Inf Div)

Group of four to Joseph A. Wozniak, 168th Infantry, 34th Infantry Division: Silver Star, slot brooch, unnamed, in a black leatherette case; Purple Heart, slot brooch, machine-engraved “Joseph A./Wozniak”, in a black leatherette case; Europe-Africa-Middle East Campaign Medal; World War II Victory Medal.

Private Wozniak’s Silver Star was awarded in 34th Infantry Division’s General Orders No.76 (12 August 1944). He was cited “for gallantry in action on 27 June 1944, in the vicinity of Massa Marittima, Italy. When his company command post was rushed by an enemy party of the attacking force, PFC Wozniak, disregarding his own safety stood up and fired 120 rounds from his submachine gun, wounding some and forcing the rest of the enemy to take cover. Not satisfied with the results, he picked up an M-1 rifle, but after five rounds the gun jammed. He then directed the fire of the other members of his squad until he noticed an automatic rifle about 15 yards away. Under constant sniper fire, he reached this gun and fired 140 rounds at the retreating enemy, causing many casualties among them. Shortly thereafter, he was killed…”

PFC Wozniak (1924-1944) is buried in St. Adalbert’s Cemetery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.