The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant James A. Ress (ASN: 32829444), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 204th Engineer Combat Battalion, XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy on 3 March 1945, in Germany. When his entire platoon became pinned down by withering enemy small arms fire, Staff Sergeant Ress volunteered to attempt to reach supporting artillery located 300 yards away, across an open field and steep incline. The entire route was made hazardous by enemy small arms, artillery and mortar fire. Nevertheless, Staff Sergeant Ress boldly ran across the open field and climbed the shell torn incline. Upon his direction a barrage was place don enemy positions and his platoon withdrew to safety. This heroic act by Staff Sergeant Ress reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.