The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Fireman First Class James Horace Blackman (NSN: 2637935), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944, in volunteering to wade from the ramp of his beached LCT(6) to the shore in order to test the depth of the water, and assure Army personnel that it was safe to disembark. Fireman First Class Blackman volunteered for this extremely hazardous work with the full knowledge that enemy fire would undoubtedly be encountered, and that he was expected to perform this only sixty minutes after H-Hour, that he would have to leave his craft alone and before the Army personnel left, and that no important direct supportingfire from our forces could be expected for his action. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.