The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James F. McGowan, Jr. (MCSN: 487721), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Lineman serving with the Twenty-Third Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Tinian, Mariana Islands, 24 July 1944. While attempting the rescue of two wounded Marines lying exposed to intense enemy blasts, Private First Class McGowan daringly crept within fifty yards of a Japanese machine gun which kept up a steady, merciless stream of fire and, although able to move only when the weapon was being reloaded, succeeded in bringing his companions to safety. His superb courage in risking his life to carry out this hazardous feat and his selfless, unfaltering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.