The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Frank Ritter (ASN: 33142578), 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 12 to 14 March 1944. After the Japanese had occupied several pillboxes and dug in behind our front line positions, Private Ritter and two companions volunteered to carry sorely-needed ammunition to men engaged in the fire fight. To accomplish this mission it was necessary to travel through enemy-occupied territory under devastating fire. Heavily Ladened, Private Ritter made numerous trips to the front successfully distributing rifle and machine gun ammunition and grenades. Several times he had to fight off concealed enemy troops, but his accomplished his mission and contributed materially to the eventual repulse of the Japanese. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Ritter, 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.