The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign James C. Bass (NSN: 0-371840), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in March 1945, as a member of an assault unit participating in the assault landing on the Okinawa Gunto. In the face of enemy rifle, machine gun and mortar fire, he bravely prepared the way for the operations of combat troops and by his courageous devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of this hazardous mission. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.