The  President of  the United  States  takes  pleasure  in  presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL posthumously to

PRIVATE FIRST CLASS JAMES A. COLLINS

for service as set forth in the following

          CITATION:

           For conspicous galantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Rifleman with the Third Battalion, Twenty-sixth Marines, Third Marine Division (Reinforced), in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 20 January 1968, Private Collins was the point Man for a patrol oporating in the vicinity of Hill 881 near Khe Sanh. As he moved in front ot the patrol, he observed several well concealed spider holes and unhesitantly fired ninto them, alerting his companions. Although seriously wounded in the initial moments of the fire fight, he declined medical assistance and continued to direct accurate fire against the enemy. Fully realizing the seriousness of his injury, he refused medical evacuation and remained in his exposed position to pinpoint the location of the enemy and direct his patrol's fire. Subsenquently, he was medically evacuated from the hazardous area and later succumed to the severity of his wounds. His heroic actions and calm presence of mind were instrumental in enabling his companions to reach more advantageous positions and undoubtedly saved several Marine lives. By his indomitable fighting spirit, inspiring courage and selfless devotion to duty, Private Collins upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He galantly gave his life for his country.

For the President

L.F. CHAPMAN, JR

Commandant of the Marine Corps