The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class James O. White (MCSN: 472048), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Twenty-first Marines, THIRD Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Cape Torokina Area, Bougainville, Island, Solomon Islands on December 12, 1943. When the rifle platoon to which he was attached was engaged in an assault on a strong enemy position, Private First Class White unhesitatingly risked his life to advance beyond his own lines to an exposed area and by making himself a challenging target for hostile fire caused the Japanese to reveal the positions of their automatic weapons. Although mortally wounded during this action he courageously signaled to the members of his platoon and directed the throwing of hand grenades into enemy emplacements. By his daring initiative and outstanding heroism, Private First Class White enabled his platoon to continue its advance and his valiant conduct throughout the action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.