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 First Class James R. Aitcheson (ASN: RA-38784045), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 78th Heavy Tank Battalion, 24th Infantry Division, on 12 July 1950 near Cho Chi Won (Chochiwon) Korea. The 21st Infantry Regiment was in a defensive position near the town of Cho Chi Won but due to the large attacking force of the enemy they were forced to withdraw from their positions and take up new positions farther south. Sergeant First Class Aitcheson’s platoon was given the mission of protecting the rear of the regiment during their withdrawal. The rear of the column was under heavy enemy artillery and automatic weapons fire which resulted in several of the infantrymen becoming wounded. On several occasions and with disregard of his own safety Sergeant First Class Aitcheson got out of his tank and helped the wounded into it; as a result he had to remain on the outside of the tank. One of the tanks of his section would not start, so Sergeant First Class Aitcheson had the driver of his tank back into position and towed the disabled tank to safety. During this time he directed the fire of his own tank on enemy positions. The courage and leadership displayed by Sergeant First Class Aitcheson aided in the evacuation of several wounded men, the saving of a much needed tank, and was also an inspiration to the other men in his platoon. The act of gallantry displayed by Sergeant First Class Aitcheson reflects great credit on himself and the Military Service.