James W. Cox

Private 1st Class, U. S. Marine Corps

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 04125 (February 13, 1946)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James W. Cox (MCSN: 547023), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Headquarters Company, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 13 May 1945.
During a crucial period of the attack when his company was pinned down by intense hostile mortar and small arms fire, Private First Class Cox volunteered to advance beyond the existing lines to withdraw wounded Marines to safety. Although movement in any direction meant exposing himself to the hail of enemy fire he courageously crawled forward over hazardous terrain and assisted a wounded man to cover. Cool and determined he repeated his heroic action until all casualties were returned to safety. By his brave initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Private First Class Cox upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.