The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) James C. Hesson (ASN: 0-1997781), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 21 December 1944, at ****, Belgium. While leading his platoon against a well dug-in and numerically superior force of enemy, Second Lieutenant Hesson was fired upon by a machine gun. He immediately returned their fire and knocked out the gun as well as killing two members of the crew. A 20-mm. flak wagon and two machine guns then opened up with point-blank range into the platoon causing many casualties. Second Lieutenant Hesson, seriously wounded, insisted on remaining with his men until all the wounded had been given first aid and evacuated. Second Lieutenant Hesson’s complete disregard for his own personal safety was greatly responsible for keeping up the morale of the men for the assignment still ahead of them. 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.