The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Cavalry) James Owen Curtis, Jr. (ASN: 0-18108), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from April through July 1943. Colonel Curtis represented the Division Commander in the planning and execution of a tank attack. When these tanks were stopped by enemy demolitions, Colonel Curtis personally reconnoitered a by-pass although subjected to heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire, returned to the tanks, and led them with his jeep over the route to the attack. His prompt and courageous action was responsible for a successful attack which destroyed several enemy anti-tank guns and half-tracks and the seizure of an enemy ammunition dump. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Curtis, 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.