The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James D. Cook (ASN: 0-1303269), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of Company G, 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Hoengsong, Korea. On 12 February 1951, Captain Cook was commanding a tank-infantry task force consisting of his company and one platoon of tanks with the mission of breaking through an enemy roadblock near Hoengsong and opening a route of withdrawal for two battalions which were encircled by the enemy. By continually exposing himself to intense enemy fire, Captain Cook skillfully and courageously directed the task force through the roadblock, repelling repeated hostile attacks, to make contact with the two encircled battalions and accomplish his mission. As a result of his resolute and fearless leadership, all enemy attempts to prevent the withdrawal of the friendly forces were completely repulsed. The gallant and intrepid action of Captain Cook were directly responsible for saving the lives of many United Nations troops and much valuable equipment, and reflect great credit on himself and the military service.