Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Master Sergeant George B. James (ASN: ER-11155334), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 September 1951 in the vicinity of Kach’il-bong, Korea. On that date Company I’s mission was to assault and secure a strategic hill defended by a well dug in and determined enemy force. Shortly after launching the attack the assaulting platoon was halted by intense hostile grenade and small arms fire. Sergeant James’ unit, the reserve platoon, was committed to action. Under his forceful leadership and through his thorough knowledge of combat tactics his men were able to quickly eliminate the heavy enemy resistance, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. In spired by his personal bravery as he led them in the attack his men succeeded in securing their objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action and outstanding leadership displayed by Sergeant James on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 18, 1951

    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 277 (July 9, 1951)

    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 George B. James (ASN: ER-11155334), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 May 1951 in the vicinity of Pungchon-ni, Korea. The platoon in which Sergeant James was a squad leader was ordered to attack and seize an important hill on the battalion defensive line. Sergeant James’ squad was designated as the assault squad and was about to jump off when it became the target of intense enemy mortar, small arms and automatic weapons fire. Yet, with complete disregard for his own safety and shouting encouragement to his men, Sergeant James led his squad in a daring assault. Engaging the enemy in close combat, he personally killed several of them and courageously led his men forward and seized the objective. The gallantry and inspiring leadership displayed by Sergeant James reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.