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 Major (Infantry) James Steven Blesse (ASN: 0-93579), United States Army, for gallantry in action involving close combat against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Blesse distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 7 September 1968 while serving as S-3 Officer of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, on a reconnaissance in force mission in Can Douc District of Long An Province. Coordinating an airmobile assault with Companies A and B of his battalion, Major Blesse accompanied the lead element of Company A in the ground assault on a well-entrenched Viet Cong Company. Realizing the action would require a great deal of coordination, Major Blesse left the command group, moving through a hail of enemy small arms fire to join the lead element. Exposing himself to heavy enemy fire for more than three hours, Major Blesse, through his own actions caused the enemy to flee in disorganized retreat. In the closing minutes of battle Major Blesse was wounded, forcing him out of the action. Major Blesse’s extraordinary heroism in close combat against an armed hostile forces is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.