The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant James J. Taylor (ASN: 39203436), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division in the Philippine Islands, on 31 July 1945. Sergeant Taylor’s platoon was crossing the Pinicayan River when it suddenly met fire from enemy rifles and machine guns. A Filipino scout was caught in the swift, treacherous current, in plain view of the Japanese. Sergeant Taylor courageously ran 25 yards across an open area, plunged into the river and dragged the man to safety behind an overhanging ledge. During this action the hostile force was continually pouring machine gun and rifle fire at Sergeant Taylor. His heroic action was an inspiration to the men of his platoon. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Taylor, 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.