The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Ray Lee Jackson (ASN: US-54762259), United States Army, for gallantry in action against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Jackson distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 25 August 1968 while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 198th Infantry Brigade, Americal Division, as grenadier on a combat mission near the village of Phuoc Bing Tay (2). On that date, at approximately 1530 hours, Private Jackson’s platoon came in contact with an enemy force of unknown size. The point squad immediately sustained three casualties, and although his entire element was pinned down, Private Jackson immediately returned effective fire with his M-79 enabling the rest of his platoon to secure a better defensive position. Disregarding his own safety, Private Jackson crawled along a ridge line through a hail of enemy fire to reach a position where he could give better support to his element. He courageously continued to move forward, drawing the intense enemy fire upon himself and away from his comrades. Private Jackson successfully engaged and destroyed the enemy machine gun position. While destroying the hostile position Private Jackson completely exposed himself to the fierce enemy fire and was mortally wounded. Private First Class Jackson’s unquestionable valor in close combat with a hostile force was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, the Americal Division, and the United States Army.