The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant James E. McDonald, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Staff Sergeant McDonald distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 20 April 1968 while serving as a team leader with Company E, 52d Infantry Regiment, during a combat mission in the A Shau Valley, Republic of Vietnam. When an element of his unit became heavily engaged with a numerically superior enemy force, Sergeant McDonald exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he moved across an open area to the first aid station. Upon reaching the aid station, Sergeant McDonald then moved from position to position re-supplying and encouraging his men. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.