The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James A. Pace, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Pace distinguished himself by intrepid actions on 10 February 1971, while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 52d Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division. On that date, the company was conducting a search and clear mission west of Quang Ngai when it came under intense fire from a well-equipped enemy force. Although he was seriously wounded in the initial barrage of hostile rounds, Lieutenant Pace continued to brave the enemy fusillade in order to expertly deploy his element to strategic emplacements and effectively engage the insurgents. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he denied himself medical attention and skillfully directed the combined retaliatory fire of his comrades until the hostile barrage was significantly reduced. Despite the danger involved, Lieutenant Pace unhesitatingly exposed himself to the concentrations of enemy fire in order to maneuver his platoon against the hostile element, completely routing it from the area. Through his timely and courageous actions, he was responsible for thwarting the determined hostile assault and minimizing friendly casualties. First Lieutenant Pace’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.