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 A. Ballard (ASN: 38356581), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, on 10 and 11 October 1944. Assuming command of his platoon after the platoon leader and sergeant had been evacuated, Private Ballard reorganized his unit under heavy fire, and in the face of a counterattack by five enemy tanks. On the following day, Private Ballard traversed thirty yards of open terrain during a renewed assault by hostile armor, to reach a seriously wounded comrade who had been left in a precarious position, administered first aid, and evacuated the soldier to a place of cover. He was wounded by a sniper bullet as he was returning from this mission. His inspiring leadership was largely responsible for the success of his unit, and reflects high credit upon his character as a soldier.