The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class James R. Bridger (ASN: 37035507), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 160th Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 29 January 1945. During an advance up the slope of a steep hill, four men of a rifle platoon were fired upon by about 25 enemy. Two were wounded and the other two were unable to withdraw because of intense enemy fire. Another platoon, of which Private First Class Bridger was a member, executed a flanking movement in a position directly in front of the enemy, in order to cover the withdrawal of the four men, but, because of the lack of cover and the intensity of hostile fire, was forced to withdraw. Private First Class Bridger, with another soldier, remained in his exposed position delivering covering fire which made possible the rescue of the four men, until he was hit and mortally wounded. His outstanding heroism in the face of grave danger saved the lives of four comrades at the cost of his own life. Private First Class Bridger’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 40th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.