The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal James M. Hagman (ASN: 36828189), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Battery C, 375th Field Artillery Battalion, 100th Infantry Division, in action at Bitche, France, during World War II. When the infantry battalion to which he was attached was attacking stubbornly defended enemy fortresses of the Maginot line, he displayed magnificent courage, skill and aggressiveness in acting as forward observer. On one occasion, subjected to fierce enemy bombardment, the radio operator heroically climbed to the top of a fortress to successfully direct our fire on hostile targets. On another, an enemy patrol of 12 men was engaged, and aided by one of our machine gun sections, they succeeded in killing five and capturing the remainder. On a third occasion, when the enemy laid down a terrific barrage of artillery and mortar fire in counterattacking a hill occupied by our forces, they bravely ascended the hill to an exposed position forward of our advance under almost incessant enemy fire, remained steadfastly at their post directing the fire of our artillery with accurate and destructive effect. Corporal Hagman’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.