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 First Class James E. McClain (ASN: US-52136570), 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. During the early morning hours of 24 June 1953, in the vicinity of Chat-Kol, Korea, a numerically superior enemy force attacked Company K positions on the main line of resistance. When the assault began, Sergeant McClain left the comparative safety of his bunker and personally operated a recoilless rifle, remaining there until the crew of this weapon was in position. He then rushed across the terrain under fire to a heavy machine gun and directed accurate fire in support of other elements of the company which were under attack. Learning that enemy troops had reached the friendly positions, he courageously began moving through the trenches, instilling confidence in his men and assuring them of the ultimate victory. His effective actions at this time led his men to fight still harder and to aggressively repel the foe. He then organized evacuation teams and supervised the removal of casualties to aid stations. Sergeant McClain’s brave actions contributed materially to the successful defense of the sector. Sergeant McClain’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.