(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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) James Richard Pendergrast (ASN: 0-24905), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Company of the 2d Battalion, 378th Infantry Regiment, 95th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in France, in 1944. Captain Pendergrast distinguished himself by courageous leadership in directing his company to execute a very difficult and critical assault in the crossing of the Moselle River, near Thionville, France, during the battle for Metz. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Pendergrast, 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.