The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Raymond H. McCray (MCSN: 330484), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands, November 7, 1943. As member of a combat patrol in the Laruma River Area, Private McCray encountered a strong hostile force about four thousand yards in advance of our lines. When heavy jungle growth prevented detection of a Japanese knee mortar which was menacing the patrol, he courageously exposed himself in full view of the enemy in order to determine its location. With cool courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety, he directed the fire of his gun at the Japanese weapon with such skill and accuracy that the knee mortar was put out of action and several members of its crew were killed. Afterward, while observing the effect of the fire delivered by his gun, he was mortally wounded. His heroic spirit of self-sacrifice was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.