The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) James Billy Leer, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, during the period from 9 to 24 January 1943. Lieutenant Colonel Leer led his battalion in a four-day march across rivers, ridges, and through tangles jungle undergrowth, blocking the movement of the enemy. Each day he walked the entire length of his battalion line which was infested with enemy snipers. He showed a thoroughly aggressive spirit by personally sharing all its dangers and hardships. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Leer, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.