The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class James A. Means (NSN: 3399046), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 September 1951. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Means, a Company Corpsman, displayed outstanding skill, courage, and devotion to duty when the company was in the attack at night. As the leading elements moved forward against well entrenched and bitterly defended enemy positions, he fearlessly and with absolute disregard for his own safety advanced throughout the area swept by enemy machine gun, mortar and artillery fire, treating and comforting the wounded. Although painfully wounded by a mortar burst, he refused to let it be known and only after all the other wounded had been cared for by him and removed to safety, would he allow himself to be evacuated. His selfless conduct in caring for and comforting others while in extreme pain himself was an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Means’ heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.