The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class James A. Collins (MCSN: 2086051), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 20 January 1968, Private First Class Collins was the Point Man for a patrol operating in the vicinity of Hill 881 near Khe Sanh. As he moved in front of the patrol, he observed several well-concealed spider holes and unhesitatingly fired into them, alerting his companions. Although seriously wounded in the initial moments of the fire fight, he declined medical assistance and continued to direct accurate fire against the enemy. Fully realizing the seriousness of his injury, he refused evacuation and remained in his exposed position to pinpoint the location of the enemy and direct his patrol’s fire. Subsequently, he was medically evacuated from the hazardous area and later succumbed to the severity of his wounds. His heroic actions and calm presence of mind were instrumental in enabling is companions to reach more advantageous positions and undoubtedly saved several Marine lives. By his indomitable fighting spirit, inspiring courage and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Collins upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.