The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class James B. Jenkins (MCSN: 516869), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on the Island of Saipan in the Marianas, on 7 July 1944. Fighting tenaciously against powerful opposition when Japanese troops penetrated his battery’s position during a bitter engagement, Private First Class Jenkins aided materially in destroying two enemy machine guns. Subsequently, with his party forced to evacuate the position after expending all rifle ammunition, he voluntarily remained at his post covering the withdrawal of his comrades, one of whom was a serious casualty, and maintained a steady stream of fire against the advancing Japanese until, mortally wounded, he fell, still firing upon the enemy. An indomitable fighter, Private First Class Jenkins, by his cool initiative, determined aggressiveness and unwavering fortitude in the face of tremendous odds, contributed essentially to the ultimate conquest of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his valiant devotion to duty throughout a period of fierce hostilities upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.