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 Sergeant [then Private First Class] James L. A. Shirey (ASN: 34939279), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Sand, Germany, on 21 March 1945. When his unit was subjected to a heavy artillery, mortar, and automatic weapons barrage during a bitter enemy counterattack, Sergeant Shirey, with utter disregard for personal safety, completely crossed perilous terrain and secured vitally needed ammunition, thereby enabling his organization to repel the vicious hostile assault. Sergeant Shirey’s gallant actions and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.