The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant James M. Whiteman (ASN: 33320968), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division in action on 11 November 1944 in the vicinity of Koenigamacher, France. During an attack on the town, the rapid advance of a platoon of Company **, 358th Infantry Regiment, was temporarily impeded by machine gun fire from an enemy pillbox. Staff Sergeant Whiteman, Squad Leader, at risk of his life, proceeded to within range of the enemy and silenced the fire with a bazooka. His courageous action enabled the platoon to continue its advance and facilitated the accomplishment of its mission. His gallantry was in accordance with high military tradition.