Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company I, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army (Company I, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division "Santa Fe", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant Elwood F. James, O-1313896, Infantry, United States Army, for heroic service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States in the vicinity of *** [Château-Salins], France on 11 November 1944. When the commanding officer of Company I, 134th Infantry, was evacuated, Lieutenant James, although suffering from a severe case of trench foot, assumed command of the company, which had as its objective the town of ***[Château-Salins]. Lieutenant James refused treatment for his condition, making his primary concern the mission at hand. Throughout the next day, in spite of his condition, Lieutenant James continued at the head of his men, and not until the mission of his company had been accomplished, did he permit himself to be treated, at which time he refused evacuation for further treatment and returned to his company. The example set by Lieutenant James in his fortitude, courage and disregard for personal welfare was an inspiration to the men of his command.
Entered military service from Pennsylvania.

Headquarters 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 58 (26 December 1944).