The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) James Ferris Pearsall, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Battalion Commander and Executive Officer of the 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in at Biak Island, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, from May to August 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Pearsall personally led a mortar section through intense enemy fire and directed a barrage which effected the rescue of many wounded soldiers. His coolness and fearlessness under fire was an inspiration to every man of his command. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Pearsall, 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) James Ferris Pearsall, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Battalion Commander and Executive Officer of the 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Leyte, Philippine Islands, during the period from 20 October 1944 to 24 December 1944. In action against the enemy for nine weeks of bitter fighting, Lieutenant Colonel Pearsall led his battalion against determined fanatical enemy forces, successfully accomplishing all missions assigned to his unit. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Pearsall, 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.