The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant James W. Searles (ASN: 35263327), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 47th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Germany, on 26 November 1944. While leading his platoon toward a strong enemy position, Staff Sergeant Searles, far in advance of his men, observed approximately 50 Germans attempting to encircle his group. He single-handedly engaged the entire force with his rifle, killing two and forcing the surrender of 40 of the enemy. Arriving at a well-fortified castle, the company’s objective, he crossed a fire-swept courtyard to reach a fatally wounded soldier. From his hazardous position he killed two enemy snipers and, despite a painful wound made his way back to his company with information which expedited the capture of the castle. Sergeant Searles’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.