James W. Ireland

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) James W. Ireland (ASN: 0-438717), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Belgium, on 30 December 1944. During the course of heavy fighting in a wooded area northeast of ****, Captain Ireland, Commanding Officer of Company G, 2d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, assumed command of Company E which had suffered numerous casualties including its commander, after a particularly heavy counterattack. Despite intense enemy artillery, rocket and small arms fire, he effectively coordinated the action of the two companies, held all enemy attacks, then led both units, depleted by casualties, in an inspiring 800 yard advance. Captain Ireland’s dynamic leadership and coolness under fire are in accord with the military traditions of the United States.