The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant James L. Sizemore (MCSN: 0-18541), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism as Leader of a Rifle Platoon attached to Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during the assault and occupation of the enemy Japanese-held island of Saipan in the Marianas Group, from 15 June to 6 July 1944. Making a determined stand when the enemy launched a sudden fierce attack on his company position the night of 6 July, First Lieutenant Sizemore resolutely held his ground, directing his men and personally engaging in a savage fire fight, until, with the sector overrun and his position rapidly becoming untenable, he gave the order to withdraw a short distance to the rear to enable reorganization of his unit. Courageously remaining in his original disposition at the mercy of a ruthless enemy, he attempted communication with the company command post in an effort to inform his commanding officer of the perilous situation but was fatally struck down at his post. An inspiring leader, First Lieutenant Sizemore, by his fearless initiative, indomitable fighting spirit and cool decision in the face of fanatic and unceasing opposition, contributed essentially to the conquest of this vital Japanese stronghold, and his great personal valor and unyielding devotion to duty throughout a prolonged period of bitter hostilities reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.