The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] James E. Rea (ASN: 0-1299628), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Belgium, on 21 December 1944. 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.

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 E. Rea (ASN: 0-1299628), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, on 22 September 1944. 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.