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) James M. Unland (ASN: 0-540236), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 6 March 1945. When his men, part of whom were riding tanks, encountered heavy enemy machine gun, rifle and mortar fire during an attack, Lieutenant Unland, commanding Company B, *** Infantry Regiment, ordered all troops except those in the lead tank to seek cover. He then ran three hundred yards through enemy fire, mounted the lead tank and directed the combined infantry-armored force from his exposed position in a successful assault on a fortified building. His daring and resourceful leadership resulted in the capture of twelve prisoners, two light machine guns, a mortar and eight rifles, and undoubtedly prevented numerous 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.