James Stephen (United States Marine Corps)

For other persons named James Stephen, see James Stephen (disambiguation).

James Stephen was a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.

His award citation reads:


 * The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Sergeant James William Stephen (MCSN: 1165833), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Squad Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on the night of 6 October 1952. When the outpost was subjected to an intense hostile artillery and mortar barrage and an overwhelming enemy force immediately assaulted and overran the position under cover of darkness, Sergeant Stephen quickly organized his squad to defend his sector and, during the ensuing close-combat struggle with the enemy, personally accounted for several enemy dead with accurate counterfire. Encouraging and inspiring his men to heroic efforts, he spearheaded three determined counterattacks and succeeded in temporarily driving off the hostile forces and in inflicting numerous casualties. With his squad cut down to only four wounded Marines, he ordered his men to take cover and assisted them to the comparative safety of a bunker. Observing six enemy infantrymen advancing along the trench line, Sergeant Stephen single-handedly charged forward with fixed bayonet and, taking the enemy by complete surprise, was last seen alive in full pursuit of the retreating troops. By his daring initiative and resolute fighting spirit in the face of tremendous odds, he enabled the remaining Marines to escape detection until the outpost was retaken by friendly troops. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon Sergeant Stephen and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Stephen was born on November 15, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan. His official residence was listed as Madison, Wisconsin.