The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant James F. Hartwig, United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam on 19 August 1970. Sergeant Hartwig distinguished himself while serving as a Team Leader in Company B, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 502d Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), during combat operations in Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Hartwig was called upon to provide fire support during an assault on an enemy-occupied ridge line. When his platoon reached the ridge line, they received grenade and automatic weapons fire from a heavily-fortified enemy position. Although sustaining a shrapnel wound, he refused medical attention and continued to assist in directing the assault until the enemy had been driven from the hill. Sergeant Hartwig’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.