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 Sergeant Theodore A. James, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 2d Ranger Battalion, Provisional Ranger Group (Separate), in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, at Normandy, France. On that date, during the initial landings on the beach at Vierville-Sur-Her, France, Sergeant James took command of his company when all the officers became casualties, and through his superior leadership, enabled many men to successfully cross the beach to their first objective. Here, he reorganized the company and led an assault on a heavily fortified hill to the rear of the beach. Despite being wounded severely in both hands, Sergeant James continued to direct operations and was among the first to reach the crest of the hill. Only after this objective was reached and their position secure would Sergeant James return to the beach to receive medical treatment. His extraordinary heroism and courageous actions exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.