The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James J. Ryan (ASN: 0-1012712), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer, Company H, 2d Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Waegwan, Korea, on 18 September 1950. During the establishment of the Naktong River bridgehead the enemy began a strong artillery barrage on his company’s positions. Hearing the pleas for aid from one of his wounded men, he unhesitatingly left his position of relative safety, and advanced through the thick barrage, to the wounded soldier’s side. While carrying the stricken man to the rear a round of the enemy’s artillery fell in the immediate area, killing the soldier and mortally wounding Lieutenant Ryan. His courageous action and unselfish devotion to his fellow soldiers reflect the greatest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.