The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant James A. Bateman (MCSN: 2102290), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Senior Advisor/Marine Squad Leader of Combined Action Platoon 2-8-1, III Marine Amphibious Force, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 16 May 1969, when informed that an adjacent combined action platoon was in contact with a large hostile force, Sergeant Bateman aggressively moved his unit into a position to block the enemy’s route of escape. Skillfully adjusting illumination over the battlefield, he directed his platoon’s fire into the hostile position, killing three North Vietnamese soldiers. Subsequently, while moving his platoon to another position, he observed an enemy squad proceeding through a rice paddy. Unhesitatingly giving the order to open fire on the hostile soldiers, he boldly led an assault on the enemy, forcing them to withdraw. While conducting a sweep through the North Vietnamese Army force’s position, his platoon came under intense small arms and grenade-launcher fire. Fearlessly exposing himself to the hostile rounds impacting around him, Sergeant Bateman moved through the fire-swept area, organized his men, and aggressively commenced an assault on the hostile positions during which he was mortally wounded by small arms fire. His bold initiative and heroic efforts inspired all who observed him and were responsible for the success of the attack which accounted for six hostile soldiers killed and numerous items of equipment captured. By his courage, aggressive leadership and steadfast devotion to duty, Sergeant Bateman upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.