The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] James Patrick McMahon (NSN: 0-472745), United States Navy, for gallantry in action and meritorious devotion to duty as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CHATTERER (AMS-40) during the period from 25 June 1950 to 31 May 1951. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, McMahon participated with distinction in practically all the major minesweeping operations, sweeping a total of 29 enemy mines. Despite the adverse effect on morale of witnessing the sinking of five friendly ships (four of them sweepers) by mines and difficulties resulting from the rugged weather and the danger of enemy shore batteries firing at his ship at point blank range, Lieutenant, Junior Grade McMahon, by outstanding leadership and professional attainments maintained his ship at a high peak of efficiency, performance and morale. His small armament returned the shore battery fire as effectively as possible. His performance of duty contributed in a large measure to the successful accomplishment of heavier units of the naval seapower in their assigned tasks and his performance of duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.