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 (Infantry) James B. Gall (ASN: 0-348050), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 1, 2 and 3 February 1945. As the battalion which Colonel Gall commanded advanced on an enemy-held city, the lead company was taken under intense enemy machine gun and rifle fire. Disregarding his own safety, he moved from place to place with the front line elements, coordinating and planning the attack. The next morning, after a heavy mortar and artillery barrage, the assault was launched against the enemy. Colonel Gall, noticing that the left platoon was not keeping pace with the advance, moved through the enemy fire to the platoon area. He found the platoon commander seriously wounded. Assuming temporary command, he spurred the platoon into a continuation of the assault on the city. The city was captured and three hundred forty two enemy were killed. The next day while Colonel Gall was moving through the city, a by-passed group of enemy soldiers opened fire on him. Quickly organizing a squad in the vicinity to assist him, he designated the target by fire from his pistol and the five enemy riflemen were killed. 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.