The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Richard J. James (ASN: 35386897), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 26 December 1944 in Luxembourg. On that date, Staff Sergeant James, a rifle squad leader, persuaded his captors to surrender and led them to American lines. Back in action on the same day he assumed command of his platoon when the platoon leader was wounded and, leading his men, he continued the attack to the successful capture of the objective. As several of his men were wounded and lay exposed to enemy fire, Staff Sergeant James, with little regard for his own personal safety, rescued and evacuated them to the aid station. His courage, aggressive leadership, and loyal devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.