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 Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Gilbert M. Ray (ASN: 0-1115390), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 105th Engineer Combat Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 July 1944, in France. First Lieutenant Ray was a member of a unit assigned the task of building a footbridge across a river which separated our troops from the enemy, to enable the crossing of infantry troops. From the beginning of these operations, the troops constructing this bridge were subjected to heavy artillery, mortar, and small arms fire, and casualties were heavy. The partly constructed footbridge was hit by artillery fire, with practically wipes out the assembly section. Confusion and lack of manpower at first hindered immediate operations, but with complete disregard for his personal safety, First Lieutenant Ray assisted in the final assembly of the bridge by helping to regain control of the men. First Lieutenant Ray’s coolness and fine display of leadership under heavy enemy fire were an inspiration to his men. His courageous efforts aided materially in successfully accomplishing the mission. The actions of First Lieutenant Ray on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.