The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant James R. Williams, Jr. (MCSN: 0-14212), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of a tank platoon of the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines (Reinforced), First Provisional Marine Brigade, Third Amphibious Corps in action against enemy Japanese forces on Guam, Mariana Islands on 21 July 1944. Employing expert tactics during a night attack by enemy tanks, First Lieutenant Williams proceeded on foot ahead of his tanks and despite the total darkness, placed his vehicles in a strategic position to repel the enemy attack. By his courageous and skilled action he enabled his platoon to destroy three hostile tanks and to repel an attack which might have resulted in a major break-through to the newly established beachhead. His tactical ability, cool leadership in the face of enemy attack and courageous devotion to duty reflect great credit on First Lieutenant Williams and the United States Naval Service.