The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman James Curtis Tarrance (NSN: B-317129), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 4 December 1968, Company I was participating in Operation MEADE RIVER south of DaNang when the Second Platoon came under a heavy volume of machine gun fire from a hostile bunker complex approximately twenty meters to their front and sustained numerous casualties. Reacting immediately, Hospitalman Tarrance left his position of relative safety and fearlessly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain to the side of a wounded Marine. Placing himself between the source of enemy fire and the injured man, he ignored the hostile rounds impacting around him and was skillfully administering first aid when he was mortally wounded. His heroic actions and calm presence of mind inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the life of his companion. By his courage, resolute determination and selfless devotion to duty, Hospitalman Tarrance upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.