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 Emil Raths (ASN: 36139279), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, from 15 to 27 March 1944. As a member of a flame-thrower team, Private First Class Raths displayed outstanding heroism several times during counterattacks against the enemy. He fearlessly crept to within five yards of a Japanese occupied pillbox and annihilated its twelve occupants. Later, while advancing boldly on a strong enemy position, he was struck and mortally wounded by enemy fire. His intrepid actions in the face of great danger aided materially in repulsing hostile attacks on American positions. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Raths, 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.