Joseph Aloysius Cleary was born on March 19, 1911, in Jersey City, Hudson County, New Jersey. He was the son of John W. Cleary. He was married to Elizabeth F. "Betty" O'Donnell Cleary. He entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1934. After graduating, Joe was assigned to Fort Bliss, Texas. He served with the 26th Cavalry Regiment (Philippine Scouts) during World War II.

Maj Cleary was killed in action on January 16, 1942, during the defense of Bataan, approximately 600 yards northeast of Abucay Hacienda. His remains were reportedly recovered and buried near Abucay, but they were never formally identified after the war. His name is memorialized in the Tablets of the Missing in the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, Manila, Capital District, National Capital Region, Philippines.

Silver Star Citation:
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Major (Cavalry) Joseph Aloysius Cleary (ASN: 0-19520), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Cavalry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against the enemy during the defense of Bataan, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 16 January 1942. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Cleary, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Source of information: www.findagrave.com, dpaa-mil.sites.crmforce.mil, weremember.abmc.gov, valor.militarytimes.com