The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Donald James (MCSN: 553956), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 18 June 1945. Observing several wounded members of his squad lying in a position exposed to a sweeping cross-fire, Private First Class James immediately crawled forward and brought fire to bear on the hostile emplacements. When he realized that his weapon was not sufficient to annihilate the enemy, he withdrew to a tank which was standing by in reserve for his company and, bringing the tank forward, courageously walked in front to direct the fire of the tank on the enemy positions. Constantly exposed to hostile fire, he continued to point out the enemy, thereby enabling the tank to destroy them while corpsmen advanced and gave medical aid to his wounded comrades. By his outstanding bravery and leadership, Private First Class James aided materially in saving the lives of several seriously wounded men. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.