The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant James B. Jones (ASN: 13119329), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Ball Turret Gunner of a B-24 Liberator Bomber of the 764th Bombardment Squadron, 461st Bombardment Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 25 July 1944, Staff Sergeant Jones participated in a bombing mission against strategic enemy installations in Germany. Over the target his formation encountered heavy enemy opposition from approximately 150 enemy fighters and intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, and, in the ensuing engagement, his turret was severely damaged by enemy fire and Sergeant Jones was seriously wounded. After receiving first aid, despite intense pain, shock and loss of blood, with complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Jones courageously remained at his position. So successfully did he man his guns in the gallant defense of his aircraft that he destroyed one enemy fighter and, beating off all subsequent attacks, enabled his bomber to return safely to base without further damage. By his conspicuous courage, professional skill and devotion to duty, as evidenced throughout over thirty successful missions against the enemy, Sergeant Jones has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.