The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James B. Lyle (ASN: 0-452005), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Ranger Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in July and August 1943. Under cover of darkness, Captain Lyle led a two-company attack against fixed enemy coastal-gun positions on high ground on the western edge of our objective. Although heavily fired upon by enemy machine guns and mortars, Captain Lyle led his men into these positions, captured two enemy 3-inch coast batteries and one mortar battery, and thereby established an anchorage highly essential to the successful landing of subsequent waves. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.