The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) James W. Bidwell (ASN: 0-325262), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 9th Tank Destroyer Group (Separate), XII Corps, in action against the enemy on 20 – 22 September 1944, in France. When his Group Headquarters was subjected to enemy sniping shortly after moving in the town of ****, France, Lieutenant Colonel Bidwell personally led a detail to clean out the snipers. Later on the same evening when artillery fire fell on his command post and wounded several of his personnel he rendered first aid despite the continued shelling. His aggressiveness, leadership and personal appearance at critical defense points greatly inspired his men to repulse an enemy attack. He repeatedly exposed himself to enemy artillery, small arms and sniper fore to insure that his security guards were placed, that the wounded were given first aid and the subordinate elements of his command were properly situated. The tireless energy, initiative and leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Bidwell reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.