Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
Willy
F.
James
, Jr.
KIA (WWII)
March 18, 1920

–

April 7, 1945

Cemetery:

A.B.M.C. Netherlands

In the late 1980s, due that fact that no Medals of Honor were awarded to Black American soldiers in either of the World Wars, a review of Distinguished Service Cross awards was initiated to see if some of these brave soldiers might have been denied the Medal of Honor due to prejudice. In 1991 the DSC awarded to Freddie Stowers in WWI was upgraded to the Medal of Honor. Subsequently, on January 13, 1997, the DSC awards to seven Black veterans of World War II were also upgraded, including the award to Willy James. His award was presented posthumously by President Bill Clinton.

Awards Received

  • Medal of Honor

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    413th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    104th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 7, 1945

    The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Private First Class Willy F. James, Jr. (ASN: 37223753), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in action on 7 April 1945, while serving with 413th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action near Lippoldsberg, Germany. As lead scout during a maneuver to secure and expand a vital bridgehead, Private First Class James was the first to draw enemy fire. He was pinned down for over an hour, during which time he observed enemy positions in detail. Returning to his platoon, he assisted in working out a new plan of maneuver. He then led a squad in the assault, accurately designating targets as he advanced, until he was killed by enemy machine gun fire while going to the aid of his fatally wounded platoon leader. Private First Class James’ fearless, self-assigned actions, coupled with his diligent devotion to duty exemplified the finest traditions of the Armed Forces.