The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Sergeant [then Technical Sergeant] James M. Eyre (ASN: 36690840), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 24 January 1945, in the vicinity of Bennwihr, France. When his company entered an enemy mine field and was subjected to an intense shelling which caused many casualties and much confusion, Sergeant Eyre organized a small group and gallantly led them in a frontal assault on the enemy. This intrepid act caused the enemy to withdraw and accomplished the company mission. Later, although wounded, Sergeant Eyre refused evacuation and returned through the un-cleared minefield to obtain ammunition and supplies. The courage and leadership shown by Sergeant Eyre under hazardous conditions is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.