The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain James M. Landrigan (MCSN: 0-41935), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 20 July 1953. Assigned the mission of counterattacking enemy forces which had overrun a friendly outpost position, Captain Landrigan courageously directed his company through devastating hostile mortar and artillery fire into an attack position. When the order to suspend the counterattack was received, he reconnoitered his position and the area forward of his unit although under persistent enemy fire. Observing that an exhausted force was precariously defending the main line of resistance, he assumed control of the local area and personally directed reinforcement to the main line from elements of his own command. Undeterred by the murderous hostile fire which was inflicting heavy casualties upon the unit, he continued to inspect his own line and the lines of the units over which he had assumed control, inspiring the men to greater efforts by his resourcefulness under fire. Throughout the following daylight ours, he continued to maintain a strong defense despite the devastating enemy fire directed upon the position and its stalwart defenders. By his courageous leadership, resolute determination and gallant devotion to duty, Captain Landrigan served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.