The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Ralph R. Hodgson (ASN: 20505448), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at New Georgia, Solomon Islands, on 31 July 1943. As a scout during combat operations, the platoon of which he was a member was subjected to heavy enemy mortar fire and the command was given to withdraw to a ridge in the rear. As he did so, Private First Class Hodgson saw a fellow soldier fall wounded. Immediately he crossed a fire-swept area to assist an officer in evacuating the wounded man. While so engaged, and after going bout fifty yards, Private First Class Hodgson was struck by a mortar shell fragment, and instantly killed, thus courageously sacrificing his life to save the live of a comrade. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.