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 E. Stevens (ASN: 0-1315233), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands. As Lieutenant Stevens’ platoon advanced up the slope of a hill near Fort Stotsenburg on 28 January 1945, it was suddenly fired upon by a Japanese dual purpose gun, which forced the men to take cover. However four men were wounded by the initial bursts and lay completely exposed to the hostile fire. Although enemy fire was continuous, Lieutenant Stevens crawled forward four tines over exposed terrain and dragged each of the casualties to a covered position, where medical aid men administered first aid. Then, after reorganizing his men, Lieutenant Stevens again led the advance up the hill. He finally succeeded in reaching a position within 25 yards of the hostile machine gun. From this position he personally threw two hand grenades, knocked out the gun and killed the three enemy crew members. 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.