The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] James A. Patterson (ASN: 0-1291873), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 July 1944, near ****, France. While making a reconnaissance of a new battalion command post, Captain Patterson reorganized elements of a company of the battalion that had become separated from the remainder of the company during a determined enemy counter-attack supported by tanks and led them in rejoining their company. Captain Patterson’s outstanding achievement was performed in an area covered with anti-personnel mines and spotted with snipers and was of material assistance in the subsequent accomplishment of the objective. Captain Patterson’s resolute initiative and leadership reflect great credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the military service.