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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Ronald E. Oakes (ASN: 0-2033763), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy as a member of Headquarters Battery, 63rd Field Artillery Battalion, 24th Infantry Division, in action on 8 July 1950 at Pude-ri, Korea. Lieutenant Oakes volunteered repeatedly to conduct fire missions on the enemy as called for by the 34th Infantry Regiment. Coming under intense enemy fire he withdrew to a new location only to find himself cut off by enemy tanks. While adjusting artillery fire on the enemy of 9 July his position was completely surrounded. He continued his mission and to relay that of the Liaison Officer in Chonan while pinned down by mortar and small arms fire. He then ordered protective fire around his own position in order to lead his party, two of which were wounded, into adjacent hills and to safety. By his coolness and skill under fire, he was able to accomplish his mission which resulted in destroying many of the enemy. This outstanding courage and leadership reflects the highest credit on himself and the military service.