The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade James W. Gish (ASN: 15373156), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 197th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 August 1944, in France. Technician Fifth Grade Gish was serving as a radio operator with a forward observer party adjusting artillery fires in support of an infantry assault force. In order to maintain communications and enable the artillery observer to successfully adjust artillery fire, Technician Fifth Grade Gish, at great risk to his life, voluntarily advanced with the most forward elements of the infantry. Through out the period, Technician Fifth Grade Gish displayed outstanding courage and unselfish devotion to duty. As a result of his fortitude and professional skill, many artillery missions were fired which destroyed enemy personnel and considerable enemy material. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fifth Grade Gish, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.