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 Private First Class James Bentis (ASN: 31188775), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 3d Battalion, 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy the European Theater of Operations, during World War II. Private First Class Bentis, assigned the mission of clearing a road containing road-blocks, mines, and booby traps, accompanied by a comrade moved 200 yards to the front of the leading elements, crawling the last 100 yards under direct enemy observation. In addition to the intense mortar and artillery fire falling on the road the enemy was protecting the roadblock with fire from two machine guns placed 200 yards to the rear of the obstacle. After reaching the road block Private First Class Bentis worked one and one-half hours under heavy enemy fire, inching his way from mine to mine, removing them with his trench knife. He succeeded in clearing the road of 40 anti-tank mines and a large number of booby traps. This heroic display of courage and unselfish devotion to duty were an inspiring example to Private First Class Bentis’ associates. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Bentis, 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.