The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) James D. Sheldon (ASN: 0-1913462), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 9 March 1951 while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, by leading the assault on the 3d Battalion objective, securing the objective, and conducting a rearguard delaying action for five hours. Lieutenant Sheldon and his men tenaciously held on to the objective until all elements of the Regiment had cleared and until only nine men were left to defend the hilltop. During this action, Second Lieutenant Sheldon constantly exposed himself to enemy fire to consolidate his force and to direct artillery and mortar fire from an exposed position. His courage and outstanding combat leadership ability were exemplary and reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the military service.