The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James E. Pinkston (ASN: 37516229), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company L, 164th Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division (Americal), in action at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 7 August 1944. When he heard and observed a strong enemy force preparing to attack our road block, Private First Class Pinkston promptly and unhesitatingly exposed himself, moving along the entire line to warn and alert his comrades. Although suffering a severe leg wound in a hail of enemy bullets from thirty-yard range, he courageously returned to his position under heavy enemy fire and operated his squad leader’s telephone during the fierce fire fight. He refused evacuation until all more seriously wounded men had been removed. Private First Class Pinkston’s alertness and gallant disregard for his own safety contributed greatly to frustrating the Japanese attack. His gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.