The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James R. Hollis (ASN: 0-1285424), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 21 February 1945, while serving with the 349th Infantry Regiment, 88th Infantry Division, in the vicinity of Casa di Bacchino, Italy. Setting out after dark, the patrol which Lieutenant Hollis was leading advanced toward the objective until a minefield was encountered. Going ahead of his men, Lieutenant Hollis searched the minefield until he found a safe path. Returning, he led his men safely through the danger zone. As they approached the enemy, Lieutenant Hollis deployed his men, but before they could take up firing positions, the enemy opened fire. Machine guns raked the hillside, flares burst overhead and in the deadly fire the patrol became disorganized. Without thought for his own safety, Lieutenant Hollis ran among his men, shouting to them, and pointing out positions. Restoring order, he directed the firefight and under his courageous leadership the men cut down a number of the enemy. Then more Germans joined in the fight. Machine guns poured fire from the right and left flanks. As casualties began to mount, Lieutenant Hollis ordered his men to withdraw. With five volunteers, this officer remained to cover the withdrawal. Another machine gun opened fire close by. Working his way forward, Lieutenant Hollis threw two grenades, killing two Germans who manned the gun. The covering force then withdrew and as they moved down the hill one of the men was wounded in the hostile fire. As mortar shells crashed on all sides and with machine gun fire sweeping the area, Lieutenant Hollis gallantly carried the wounded man to the cover of a draw. Leaving his men, he again went into the minefield and picked a safe path. Then, carrying the casualty, this officer led the way through the minefield to the company positions. By his inspiring gallantry in German fire, Lieutenant Hollis inflicted casualties among the enemy and saved the life of one of his men. The actions of this officer reflect the finest traditions of the armed forces.