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 Arthur Blakeslee (ASN: 0-57272), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 3d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. An infantry company attacking in the vicinity of Saga, Korea, on 15 September 1950, sustained numerous casualties from hostile forces occupying strongly defended positions on commanding terrain. When the leader of the assault platoon was wounded, Lieutenant Blakeslee, the company executive officer, unhesitatingly advanced across the fire-swept terrain and took charge of the platoon. Repeatedly exposing himself to the intense hostile fire, he expertly directed the actions of his men; under his able leadership the attack was successfully completed. Lieutenant Blakeslee’s courage, resourcefulness and military skill reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.