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 N. Lally (ASN: 0-1286145), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action south of ****, Sicily. Although injured while landing by parachute under fire at night in hostile territory, Lieutenant Lally refused to be evacuated and continued to lead his men in the face of intense machine gun fire in repeated assaults on the enemy. 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.