The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James P. Hales, III (ASN: 0-5312419), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force action on 9 May 1968, while serving as Company Commander of Company B, 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, on a combat operation in the Republic of Vietnam. While in command of a friendly element on a mission to relieve Fire Support Base Maury, Captain Hales came under intense enemy RPG and automatic weapons fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Captain Hales stood on top of his command vehicle and, firing his weapon, personally led a mounted charge which blasted its way through the enemy and into the base. On entering the base, he led a platoon on a mounted assault, personally killing many enemy troops with machinegun fire and hand grenades. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and the defeat of the enemy force. Captain Hales’ personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James P. Hales, III (ASN: 0-5312419), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force action on 26 and 27 May 1968, while serving as Company Commander of Company B, 4th Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, on a combat operation in the Republic of Vietnam. While in a night defensive position, Company B was attacked by a large communist force. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Hales moved through intense small arms fire to direct safe covering fire on a returning ambush patrol. Again, he exposed himself to enemy fire as he returned to his command track and remained in an open position as he directed gunships and airstrikes on the insurgents’ positions. The enemy withdrew only to return the next day, and be repelled by Company B again. Captain Hales repeatedly exposed himself atop his track as he directed the successful thwarting of this hostile force. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission and the defeat of the hostile force. Captain Hales’ personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.