The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Richard D. James (MCSN: 2382319), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with Company L, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 8 December 1968, during Operation MEADE RIVER, Corporal James was leading his squad in an assault on an enemy bunker southwest of DaNang when the Marines were pinned down by a heavy volume of machine gun fire and sustained a casualty. Completely disregarding his own safety, Corporal James boldly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to the side of the wounded man and commenced delivering protective fire upon the hostile position. Although seriously wounded, he quickly recovered and resumed his efforts to destroy the enemy emplacement. Struck again by a hostile round, which knocked his helmet to the ground, he called for a machine gun and, when it arrived, directed its crew in delivering suppressive fire until the gunner was mortally wounded. Immediately manning the weapon, Corporal james was effectively employing it against the enemy to cover his squad’s withdrawal when he was fatally injured. His heroic actions and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades inspired all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unfaltering devotion to duty, Corporal James upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.