The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal James Perkins (MCSN: 1016689), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of the Division Postal Section, Headquarters Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 November 1950. Despite the grave danger involved, Corporal Perkins volunteered to deliver mail to a battalion occupying a forward outpost. When the convoy in which he was traveling was ambushed by a large enemy force, he remained in a position exposed to withering hostile automatic weapons and small arms fire to deliver effective return fire on the enemy. Although twice wounded during the engagement, he fearlessly continued to pour fire on the attackers until he was wounded a third time and was unable to operate his weapon. Refusing medical attention, he remained in his position under intense fire, loading magazines for his comrades so they could continue the engagement. When the enemy was finally repulsed, he assisted in aiding the other wounded and, after all casualties had been treated, consented to medical aid. Throughout the engagement, he maintained personal control of the mail in his charge and ultimately delivered it intact to the proper authority. By his aggressive fighting spirit, marked fortitude and courageous initiative, Corporal Perkins served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.