The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fourth Grade James G. Meisel (ASN: 32792294), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 24 March 1945. During the assault crossing of the **** River, Sergeant Meisel, in charge of an assault boat, assisted in repairing the craft on the hostile shore while under savage fire. After several trips his damaged boat sank. He took charge of an unmanned boat in the vicinity and, unassisted, took a load of infantrymen across. While returning under continuing enemy fire, Sergeant Meisel rescued an infantryman who was floating unconscious downstream. His courage, devotion to duty, and coolness under fire reflect high credit upon his character. 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.