The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James B. Helmer (ASN: 0-453688), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 2 February 1945, near ****, Germany. Captain Helmer, Company Commander, Company A, 1st Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, displayed rare courage in leading his company against deadly automatic weapons fire while attacking prepared concrete fortifications of the Siegfried Line. When part of his company was pinned down by fire from enemy pillboxes, Captain Helmer went at once to the portion of his line receiving the most intense fire, with utter lack of concern for his life, and called for tank fire. Moving between his firing line and his radio, he observed and adjusted the tank fire until its effect slackened the withering enemy automatic weapons concentration. He then re-grouped his company, encouraged the men by his own fearlessness and led them vigorously into the attack again. Under his aggressive and able leadership, his company was the first to reach its objective and establish a firm position on the soil of the Reich. The company, although depleted by heavy casualties, took one hundred prisoners and inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy. Captain Helmer’s courage and leadership reflects great credit upon himself and the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.