James C. Holt

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to James C. Holt (34970670), Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 275th Infantry Regiment, (Task Force Herren), 70th Infantry Division, near Saarbrucken Germany. When the battalion defenses were being overrun by a powerful enemy night counterattack, Staff Sergeant Holt, deploying his squad for security, heroically operated his 81-mm. mortaring, having at times five rounds on the way at once, even though he was subjected to direct small arms and tank fire. His courageous leadership kept the squad morale high enabling him to assist in the hazardous operations. The mortar being ordered to the rear, Staff Sergeant Hold remained as the forward observer and from an exposed position directed deadly fire upon the enemy. Sustaining a wound, he remained at his post until relieved, despite the loss of blood and the danger to his life.