The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major James L. Jones (MCSN: 0-7458), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion, Fifth Amphibious Corps, Fleet Marine Force, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa from 26 to 29 March and 6 to 7 April 1945. In an effort to obtain essential information concerning the strength and disposition of hostile forces on islands off Okinawa prior to our invasion, Major Jones ably developed plans for the infiltration and reconnaissance of enemy-held positions. Despite the hazards of heavy hostile rifle, machine-gun and mortar fire, he coolly and skillfully directed the execution of these plans, securing data which greatly facilitated the work of the assault waves. By his courage, leadership and devotion to duty, Major Jones contributed materially to the success of the Okinawa campaign, and his conduct throughout upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.