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 P. Knize (ASN: 35837732), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 10 April 1945 in Germany. At Gispersleben, Germany, Private First Class Knize observed two comrades who had become casualties lying in an exposed position well forward of the front lines. With utter disregard for personal safety he advanced through severe hostile fire to aid and evacuate over the same route the one soldier still alive. The gallant action, initiative, and devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Knize were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.