The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Sergeant Vincent J. Raffery (ASN: 32025659), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 March 1945, in Germany. On that date our bombers were returning from a mission across the Rhine River when one of them crashed and burst into flames in a demolition dump. On both sides of the bomber were large stacks of high explosives. First Sergeant Rafferty, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, fought his way into the burning plane to evacuate some of its occupants until ordered to stop by his officers, at which time the plane and TNT exploded. By his gallant courage under the most hazardous conditions, First Sergeant Rafferty has been an inspiration to the men of his organization and his unselfish devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.