The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class James A. Lewis (ASN: RA-38465367), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 6 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. On that date his company was engaged in establishing defensive positions when the enemy subjected one of its platoons to intense mortar fire. Under cover of the heavy mortar barrage the enemy launched an attack and the platoon, in the ensuing firefight, exhausted its ammunition. Private Lewis formed a carrying party and, under the heavy hostile fire, led them with a re-supply of ammunition to the hard-pressed platoon. Upon reaching the platoon line, the ammunition bearers were ordered to return to their former positions. Private Lewis, realizing the importance of every man in the line, voluntarily chose to remain with the depleted platoon to fight as a rifleman. While engaging the enemy at close quarters, he was killed by hostile fire. The gallantry and selfless action of Private Lewis in sacrificing his life to aid his unit hold a position against overwhelming odds reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.