The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Raymond S. Gates (ASN: 0-230904), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 323d Infantry Regiment, 81st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces from 14 October 1944 to 17 November 1944, at Peleliu Island. Colonel Gates was daily in the front lines of his companies in order to secure first-hand information of his own and the enemy situation. On 26 October when a Japanese booby trap exploded and caused numerous casualties, Colonel Gates refused to leave the area, which was then under heavy enemy fire, until complete evacuation was accomplished. Later, disregarding the Japanese snipers who had killed several officers and men at his side he personally directed the preparation of critical demolitions. In the ensuing days of hard fighting against determined enemy resistance, Colonel Gates consistently remained with the forward elements of his troops until he was shot in the head and killed. His devotion to duty, bold leadership, and extreme self-sacrifice were an inspiration and will be a lasting memory to all who knew him. Lieutenant Colonel Gates’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 81st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.