The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James B. Peake (ASN: 0-107875), United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force while serving with Company A, 2d Battalion, 502d Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. Lieutenant Peake distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 August 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. While on a search and destroy mission, Lieutenant Peake’s platoon was moving along a jungle trail when they were suddenly taken under a vicious hail of enemy automatic weapons fire. He left a squad to safeguard the wounded, then immediately organized and led an assault on the surprised enemy. Lieutenant Peake, with complete disregard for his own safety, personally assaulted the strongest enemy position by throwing hand grenades and firing his weapon. He succeeded in overrunning the enemy positions, killing three enemy soldiers and capturing their weapons. Lieutenant Peake’s devotion to duty and personal courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.