The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Ray L. Abbott (ASN: RA-15263912), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 23 August 1950 in the vicinity of Taegu, Korea. On that date his platoon was attacking a numerically superior and well-entrenched enemy force. As the platoon advanced it was subjected to intense enemy machine gun and small arms fire which inflicted several casualties and threatened the platoon with annihilation. Corporal Abbott, a light machine gunner, picked up his weapon and, with complete disregard for his personal safety, advanced alone toward the enemy firing from the hip. His fearless charge in the very face of point-blank hostile fire resulted in killing a large number of enemy and forcing the remainder to retreat. As a result his platoon was able to advance and seize its objective with a minimum of casualties. During this action Corporal Abbott was wounded but refused to be evacuated until reorganization of his platoon had been effected. The gallantry and inspirational conduct displayed by Corporal Abbot on this occasion reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.