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), [then Second Lieutenant] James R. Hatchett (ASN: 0-1324930), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 21 February, 1945. While leading his platoon in an assault against an enemy strongpoint, Lieutenant Hatchett and one of his men were wounded by intense enemy rifle and grenade fire which halted the advance. Disregarding his slight wound, Lieutenant Hatchett regrouped his men and continued the attack. During this action, he noted that the man who had been wounded by the enemy hand grenades was losing blood, and lying in an exposed position. Lieutenant Hatchett immediately crawled forward under the intense hostile fire, and dragged the wounded man to cover. Then, continuing the attack, he skillfully employed rocket launchers, hand grenades, and rifle and automatic weapons fire to successfully capture the enemy positions. 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.