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 [then Corporal] James Q. Kurz (ASN: 33565032), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 18 September 1944, near ****, Germany. Sergeant Kurz, Squad Leader, Company B, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, led one of two assault platoons in an attack against strong enemy forces who had seized a field which was to be used as a landing field for gliders. The enemy’s heavy 20-mm. and small arms fire stopped the advancing squads. Realizing the necessity for positive action, Sergeant Kurz stood up, rallied his men, and continued across the field. They overran the positions, knocked out two machine guns, capturing twelve prisoners and killed twenty Germans. Sergeant Kurz’s intrepid and inspiring leadership made the attack a complete success. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.