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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James R. Duncan (ASN: 0-62221), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 May 1951 in the vicinity of Hyon-ni, Korea. On that day, Captain Duncan was acting in the capacity of Battalion Executive Officer, S2 and S3, because of the shortage of officers in the battalion. The battalion was in attack and due to pervious extensive combat, the assault by fatigued troops slowed to a standstill, resulting in an excessive number of casualties suffered. Without regard for his personal safety, Captain Duncan rushed to the leading elements to remedy the situation. Although the area was under intense enemy fire, Captain Duncan calmly encouraged his men, organized stragglers and led them forward in the attack. He directed the fire and movements of small groups with such effectiveness that the attack continued and progressed to the battalion objective. His courage and determination were a deciding factor in the success of the operation. The gallantry displayed by Captain Duncan reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 27, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 657 (October 31, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) James R. Duncan (ASN: 0-62221), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 August 1951 in the vicinity of Chin-kogae, Korea. On this date a large enemy force attacked the outpost positions of F and G Companies, inflicting numerous friendly casualties. As the two companies withdrew, they were met by Major Duncan at hill pass 530. He reorganized the units and in the face of intense enemy small arms fire, directed the placing of the men into an effective defensive perimeter. Later, when the enemy, supported by 76-mm. cannon fire, began an assault on the new line, Major Duncan, exposed to enemy observation and fire, moved about his men giving words of encouragement and checking the progress of the battle. As a result of his outstanding leadership, the enemy was forced to withdraw with heavy casualties. The gallantry in action demonstrated by Major Duncan on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Action Date:

    November 1961 – April 1963
    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 7 (March 3, 1964)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) James R. Duncan, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from May 1954 to November 1963. The leadership, exemplary foresight and ceaseless efforts consistently demonstrated by Colonel Duncan resulted in significant contributions to the effectiveness of the United States Army.

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 27, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 577 (October 7, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Major (Infantry) James R. Duncan (ASN: 0-62221), United States Army, for heroic achievement on 27 August 1951 in the vicinity of Chin-kogae, Korea. On this date a large enemy force attacked the outpost positions of F and G Companies, inflicting heavy friendly casualties. As the two companies withdrew, they were met by Major Duncan at hill pass 530. He reorganized the units and in the face of intense enemy small arms fire, directed the placing of the men into an effective defensive perimeter. Later, when the enemy, supported by 76-mm. cannon fire, began an assault on the new line, Major Duncan, exposed to enemy observations and fire, moved about his men giving words of encouragement and checking the progress of the battle. As a result of his outstanding leadership, the enemy was forced to withdraw with heavy casualties. The heroism in action demonstrated by Major Duncan on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.