The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James D. Sumner (ASN: 0-414107), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division. Lieutenant Sumner led two rifle companies of the 1st Battalion, 60th Infantry, against two hostile infantry regiments during the night of 9 – 10 November 1942, near Port Lyautey, French Morocco. It was through Lieutenant Sumner’s bold tactics that the enemy was led to believe our forces were far superior to theirs in number which caused many of the enemy to surrender as prisoners. It was also through Lieutenant Sumner’s actions that two battalions of French forces decided to capitulate which eased our operations against the airport at Port Lyautey to a considerable extent. First Lieutenant Sumner’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.