JAMES R. BECK, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Member in a Squad of Company K, Third Battalion, Third Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 22 November 1943. With all but four of his fellow squad members wounded or killed by accurate enemy gunfire during an assault on two Japanese pill- box entrenchments on a ridge commanding an area through which an attack by his company was contemplated, Private Beck signaled his comrades to direct their fire on the hostile emplacement in order to cover his advance, and daringly crept through the jungle to a point on the flank of the enemy position. Boldly charging the two pillboxes single-handedly, he promptly annihilated the Japanese occupants with grenades and demolished their weapons. By his personal valor, initiative and Indomitable fighting spirit throughout this perilous operation, Private Beck contributed materially to the success of his companyís subsequent attack on the enemy In this area and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Beck is a life member and resided in North Carolina.