The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Private First Class James Joseph McKenzie (MCSN: 298423), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines, on 13 April 1942 following a heavy Japanese artillery barrage upon Battery James, Fort Mills, Corregidor, Philippine Islands. When personnel of the battery were trapped as they sought shelter in nearby tunnels, he readily volunteered, although the position was under close enemy observation and steady fire, to rescue his comrades. Disregarding the imminent danger of collapsing walls and roofs, Sergeant McKenzie heroically entered the tunnels, assisted in extricating trapped soldiers, and gave first aid to the wounded.