The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” (posthumously) to Private First Class James Francis Bean, United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Bean distinguished himself by valorous actions on 21 July 1967 while participating in a search and secure mission, near Xa Binh Hoa Province, Republic of Vietnam. As the lead troop was entering its assigned sector of security, it came under heavy anti-tank and automatic weapons fire from an undetermined number of Viet Cong. Although seriously wounded in the initial blast, Private Bean courageously directed an extremely accurate and effective volley of suppressive fire upon the attackers. Alertly detecting a group of Viet Cong dashing toward the dense jungle he immediately delivered a devastating volley of highly accurate fire upon the retreat enemy which killed at least three of the insurgents. Displaying exceptional alertness and bravery, Private Bean continued to return fire and resist the enemy force until the moment of his death. Private First Class Bean’s courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.