The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James H. O’Connor (MCSN: 1152059), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 May 1951. Handicapped by fading daylight and unable to determine the source of intense enemy automatic weapons, grenade and small arms fire during the assault against well-entrenched hostile forces, Private First Class O’Connor voluntarily stood up in full view of the enemy in a bold attempt to locate their positions. Observing two enemy soldiers, he immediately opened fire and killed both of them. When the enemy was moving forward to engage his unit along a commonly unobserved approach, he promptly determined their intention and warned his platoon commander, enabling the Marines to move into the attack and surprise the hostile force. Although painfully wounded during the ensuing engagement, he bravely refused evacuation until the objective was secured and, by his aggressive fighting spirit and fortitude, served to inspire all who observed him. His marked courage, initiative and steadfast devotion to duty were contributing factors in the success achieved by his company and reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class O’Connor and the United States Naval Service.