The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade James W. Emmons, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of PT-149. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Emmons led his ship against a large formation of enemy barges along the northern coast of New Guinea on 28 July 1943, and assisted in sinking six of the craft and damaging several others. On another occasion he assisted in sinking four more. 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.