The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] James W. Blackmon (ASN: RA-14369087), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 20 May 1951, near Kyong-san, Korea, the First Platoon of Company L was given the mission of attacking and securing a steep, well-defended hill. Sergeant Blackmon, leading the forward squad through a withering hail of enemy machine gun and small arms fire, reached a point near the top of the hill where the intensity of the fire caused his squad to seek cover; however, he continued to advance. Inspired by his utter fearlessness, the men attempted to follow but were again forced to take cover. Sergeant Blackmon, ignoring orders to withdraw to safety, relentlessly searched out the hostile positions, hurling grenades and firing his weapon until wounded. Observing this, the men spontaneously charged the enemy and followed by the remainder of the platoon, drove the foe from the hill. The gallantry, courage, and aggressiveness displayed by Sergeant Blackmon reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.