The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal James L. McMinn (MCSN: 665737), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Machine Gunner of Company A, First Engineer Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 December 1950. When his unit was ordered to withdraw after a numerically superior enemy force had overrun a friendly position on the outpost line of resistance, Corporal McMinn, who had the only machine gun still in operation, courageously volunteered to remain behind to cover the withdrawal. After providing a base of covering fire for the unit, he began to withdraw and simultaneously delivered devastating fire upon the enemy, inflicting heavy casualties and momentarily stopping the hostile advance, thereby enabling the platoon to reach the safety of the main line of resistance without further casualties. Subsequently making his way to friendly lines through intense hostile fire, he again set up his weapon and continued to fire upon the enemy until the attack was repulsed. By his outstanding courage, indomitable fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme peril, Corporal McMinn served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.