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 James W. Ranck (ASN: 16072063), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with 9th Reconnaissance Troop, 9th Infantry Division. On 7 March 1943, in the Gafsa Sector, Tunisia, Private Ranck, after completing a hazardous and extremely important reconnaissance through enemy mine fields, without hesitating and with utter disregard for his own personal safety, volunteered to go forward through heavy enemy artillery fire to salvage a stalled vehicle which had been abandoned in a previous action. This action resulted in the recovery of the vehicle and its valuable equipment. Private Ranck’s 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.