The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant] Ray C. Kling (ASN: 37323585), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 413th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action in Germany on 23 March 1945. Leading an advance party into an enemy-held town, Sergeant Kling’s group was cut off by an enemy force. Exposing himself to enemy fire, he dashed across open terrain, secured a machine gun, and returned to place devastating fire on the enemy positions despite deadly bazooka fire, forcing the enemy to withdraw in confusion. Reorganizing his men, he stormed the town, skillfully placing his fire power in a manner which forced the enemy forces to seek cover and finally to surrender. The gallantry and superb leadership displayed by Sergeant Kling, above and beyond the call of duty, exemplify the finest traditions of the American soldier and combat leader.