The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant James R. Stockman (MCSN: 0-13816), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an 81-mm. Mortar Platoon Leader of the First Battalion, Twenty-ninth Marines (Reinforced), Fifth Amphibious Corps, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 26 June 1944. When one of the companies of his battalion was held up by intense enemy mortar, machine-gun and rifle fire, First Lieutenant Stockman courageously went forward to his observation post and personally directed his mortars against the strong Japanese position until it was neutralized and the enemy were forced to abandon the area. By his initiative and courage, First Lieutenant Stockman enabled the company to continue its advance, and his devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.