The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant James J. Beauford (ASN: 34128472), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 11 and 12 February 1945 in Germany. On 11 February 1945, near Biesdorf, Germany, Staff Sergeant Beauford, a squad leader, reorganized and took command of his platoon when the platoon sergeant and platoon leader were wounded. Further advance was hindered by the fire of an enemy tank which killed the rocket launcher operator. Unable to find a launcher which would work, Staff Sergeant Beauford advanced alone against the tank and killing the commander and observer forced the tank to withdraw. On the following day when a machine gun crew was wounded Staff Sergeant Beauford crawled to the exposed gun position and delivered such effective fire that the attack was able to proceed successfully. His courage, leadership, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.