The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Captain (Armor) Johnnie Lynn Ray, United States Army, for meritorious service from 7 April 1972 to 12 February 1973 while a Prisoner of War in South Vietnam and Cambodia. Ignoring international agreements on treatment of prisoners of war, the North Vietnamese subjected Captain Ray to a routine of mental and physical cruelties, including withholding of adequate medical treatment for wounds and illnesses. This routine was calculated and designed for the purpose of obtaining military information and propaganda material detrimental to the United States./ Under these extremely adverse conditions, Captain Ray successfully resisted indoctrination, threats, and promises of medical attention by the North Vietnamese intended to coerce him to support causes injurious to the United States. He never wavered in his devotion and loyalty to his country. Throughout his internment, Captain Ray maintained a high state of discipline and morale. He continually confronted the North Vietnamese by refusing to cooperate or to conform with camp regulations, causing the enemy to maintain a posture of maximum security. Defying his captors he shared everything he had with his fellow prisoners and gave them encouragement to continue when all seemed hopeless. With consistent loyalty and perseverance, he conducted himself in a manner that aided the senior prisoner of war immeasurably in controlling the camp and maintaining prisoner morale. Captain Ray’s conduct and manner of performance were clearly exceptional, reflecting great credit upon himself, the Army, and the United States of America.