Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James E. McCamey, Jr. (ASN: 0-1321796), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, France, on 11 September 1944. Lieutenant McCamey swam across the **** River, leading his platoon to the east bank in the face of heavy enemy fire of all types. After establishing a foothold, this platoon was pinned down on the hostile shore for more than three hours, but by skillful deployment of his troops, Lieutenant McCamey held his position against great odds. Upon hearing friendly tanks about 300 yards down the river, he established contact with them by running through fields of fire with complete disregard for personal safety. Mounted on the forward part of the lead tank, he directed the column to the front of his platoon’s position and succeeded in driving the enemy from their strong positions. Lieutenant McCamey’s dynamic leadership made possible the enlargement of the bridgehead and enabled the remainder of the battalion to cross the river with minimum casualties. 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Division:

    35th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 1, 1944

    Headquarters, 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 32 (September 14, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) James E. McCamey, Jr. (ASN: 0-1321796), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the **** River sector, France, on 1 August 1944. Lieutenant McCamey, Platoon Leader, Company B, *** Infantry Regiment, directed the fire of accompanying tanks by means of control telephone. As a result of enemy action, the tank from which he was directing fire was knocked out. Despite the intensity of enemy fire, Lieutenant McCamey ran alongside the commander’s tank, shouting orders which were in turn radioed to the other tanks. When the attack slowed down in the face of superior enemy forces, Lieutenant McCamey reorganized the company, then returned to the rear and led the supporting infantry company into position for a continuation of the attack. Directing both companies and the detachment of tanks, he succeeded in reaching and holding the battalion objective. The outstanding leadership of Lieutenant McCamey, his courage, resourcefulness, and utter disregard for personal safety, were immeasurably responsible for the success of the mission, and are in accord with the high traditions of the military service.