The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant James Williams (MCSN: 2088210), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Squad Leader with the First Platoon, Company M, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in Vietnam on 21 July 1967. Sergeant Williams was engaged as a member of a company search and destroy operation northwest of the Khe Sanh Combat Base. As the company approached one of its objectives. It came under heavy arms and automatic weapons fire from an enemy force in well-fortified positions. Although his squad immediately sustained casualties from the intense fire, he aggressively maneuvered against the enemy in an attempt to gain fire superiority. Repeatedly exposing himself to draw enemy fire, he provided his men with targets. After receiving the order to withdraw his squad over the 100 meters of fire swept terrain, Sergeant Williams skillfully accomplished the mission although several casualties were sustained. Upon arrival at his new position, he discovered that one Marine was missing. Without hesitation, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he raced back to his formerly occupied position, and, locating the wounded Marine, carried him to safety by once more braving the withering enemy fire. Continuing to expose himself to the enemy fire, he directed the consolidation of his position and the evacuation of casualties until he fell mortally wounded. Sergeant Williams’ dynamic leadership, devotion to duty, outstanding professional skill and courageous actions in the face of overwhelming odds inspired all who observed him and contributed directly to the success of his unit. His valiant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.