The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James D. Vickers (ASN: 38434830), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. During the attack against Hill B, Balete Pass, on 8 May 1945. Private Vickers saw a soldier fall wounded in a position completely exposed to the intense hostile fire. He immediately ran to the rescue over the fire swept terrain. While dragging the casualty back down the hill, Private Vickers was wounded in the leg. Despite his intense pain, he continued to pull the injured man until he reached a position of safety. Then, because of the shortage of litter bearers, he helped three other men carry the seriously wounded soldier 500 yards to an aid station, Only then did Private Vickers have his own wound treated, and allow himself to be evacuated. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.