The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James P. Cavanaugh (MCSN: 614347), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Gunner in a Light Machine Gun Section of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 and 7 December 1950. During twenty-two hours of continuous action in sub-zero temperatures while his company was moving from Hagaru-ri to Koto-ri, Private First Class Cavanaugh frequently exposed himself to intense hostile fire to deliver his own accurate fire on the enemy. Although painfully wounded while supporting his company’s assault against a well-entrenched enemy force blocking their movement he steadfastly remained at his gun, firing continually until they had achieved their objective. By his aggressive determination, outstanding courage and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of heavy enemy opposition, Private First Class Cavanaugh upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.