The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal James B. Christensen (ASN: RA-11182557), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 12 February 1951, near Chom-Chon, Korea, Corporal Christensen’s squad, a part of a reconnaissance patrol of Company K was ambushed by a numerically superior, well dug-in, concealed enemy force near Hill 88. Subjected to an intense barrage of enemy mortar, small arms and automatic fire, Corporal Christensen, moved his mortar to an exposed position where he could observe the enemy emplacement. From this position he placed intense and accurate fire upon the enemy strongpoints until his mortar was knocked out by an enemy machine gun. Then without hesitation, he moved forward aggressively across open terrain in a single-handed attack on the enemy emplacement, firing his carbine, until he was close enough to throw hand grenades and destroy the enemy emplacement. When his patrol received orders to withdraw, Corporal Christensen volunteered to remain and provide covering fire for the withdrawing patrol. Not until his patrol had withdrawn, did he draw back. Corporal Christensen’s gallantry and heroic devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.