The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class James Mark Lewis (MCSN: 1309392), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 26 March 1953. Participating in the defense of an outpost well forward of the main line of resistance during an assault by a numerically superior hostile force, Private First Class Lewis repeatedly assumed a position from which he could effectively delay the enemy and thereby give the defenders of the outpost sufficient time to reorganize and repulse the attack. Killed in action by an enemy demolition charge while voluntarily defending the entrance to a cave, Private First Class Lewis, by his outstanding courage and valiant fighting spirit, served to inspire all who observed him and materially aided in the defense of the outpost. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.