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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) James J. McMullen (ASN: 0-1300198), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 September 1951 in the vicinity of Mandae-ri, Korea. On that date Company B was attacking a strategic enemy-held hill. Lieutenant McMullen, platoon leader, led his platoon forward against a well-entrenched enemy force despite intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire. After inflicting numerous casualties on the hostile force, the unit was finally forced to withdraw. Immediately, Lieutenant McMullen reorganized his men and once again, led them forward. Although painfully wounded in the initial phase of the attack, he courageously moved about his men giving words of encouragement and instructions. The objective was almost secured when Lieutenant McMullen was fatally wounded by enemy fire. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant McMullen reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.