The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private James Edward Bonner (ASN: 34125108), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with combat operations against the enemy while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division in North Africa, in November 1942. After landing near Oran Private Bonner was hit in the leg by mortar shrapnel. As he returned to the battalion aid station with several other casualties, an enemy machine gun nest opened fire on them. When the wounded men dropped to the ground, Private Bonner began crawling in a circle to the rear of the nest clutching the submachine gun he had obtained from his battalion commander, another casualty. He finally reached the rear of the nest, moved in, and killed three Germans with a burst from the Tommy gun, and took two prisoners. Private Bonner’s 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.