James Takashi Okamoto

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to James Takashi Okamoto (30104825), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 442d Regimental Combat Team, attached to the 36th Infantry Division, near Biffontaine, France, on 29 October 1944. When his company was pinned down by an enemy machine gun which was supported by rifle grenade, bazooka, and sniper fire, Private Okamoto crawled forward alone to locate the gun position. Realizing that he would not be able to outflank the emplacement because of the supporting fire, he advanced directly on the position, firing at it and forcing the enemy gunners to return fire and reveal their position. This action resulted in a concentration of fire upon Private Okamoto and enabled his platoon to encircle the position and destroy it. While engaged in a subsequent fire fight with the enemy he was mortally wounded by a sniper. His actions, without regard for his own safety, reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.