The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Staff Sergeant James Earl Crooks, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 25th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized), 25th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 22 January 1943. Staff Sergeant Crooks volunteered to drive an M-3 light tank on an extremely hazardous mission over ground covered with jungle undergrowth where initial reconnaissance was impossible due to enemy occupation of the area. The tank driven and operated by Staff Sergeant Crooks destroyed at point-blank range, some eight fully manned machine gun nest, thereby cracking the ring of resistance which had held up an infantry regiment for three weeks and permitting infantry troops to clear out completely the center of resistance there. His actions contributed materially to the ultimate success of the Infantry in this area at a minimum loss of life. Staff Sergeant Crooks’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.