The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant James Willard Bass (ASN: RA-20906852), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company M, 3d Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. At about 0200 hours, 20 September 1950, near Neylon, Korea, a strong hostile attack caused withdrawal of a platoon adjacent to Sergeant Bass’ unit. To provide cover for the platoon, Sergeant Bass moved his machine gun to an effective but exposed position and delivered fire against the enemy until he was mortally wounded. By his valorous devotion to duty and to his fellow soldiers, Sergeant Bass made possible the safe withdrawal of the platoon. His bold and courageous action reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Army.