SSG. Joseph M. Ward, was granted the Navy Cross for his extraordinary heroism while serving as a Squad Leader in the Second Platoon of Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Marine Division, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 19 September 1950. When an enemy grenade fell into a foxhole occupied by two members fo his squad during an enemy attack, Sergeant Ward immediately leaped into the hole, picked up the grenade, and attempted to hurl it back toward the enemy. Directly after leaving his hand, the grenade exploded in mid-air and severely wounded his right hand and lower arm. By his alert and courageous actions at the risk of his own life, Sergeant Ward undoubtedly saved teh two men from serious injury and possible death. His outstanding fortitude and selfless devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. Mr. Ward, who left the Marines as a Staff Sergeant, was born in Ireland.

SSG. Ward joined the Legion of Valor in 1975.