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 (Infantry) Waverly W. Wray (ASN: 0-1030110), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 20 September 1944 at ****, Holland. On 20 September 1944, First Lieutenant Wray, Executive Officer of Company D, 2d Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, advanced with his company in the direction of the railroad bridge at ***, Holland, which spanned the Waal River. The objective of the company was to take and hold this bridge. The company, supported by British tanks and Bren gun carriers came under heavy fire from a concealed enemy position. German SS Troops, armed with automatic weapons and bazookas, were so located that they could fire on the lead tanks and it was necessary that they be eliminated at once. First Lieutenant Wray immediately and on his own initiative, formed a squad of men and personally led them in a vicious and successful attack on the enemy position. In this action he received severe wounds, but continued to lead his men until the enemy was eliminated. Through great initiative and personal courage, First Lieutenant Wray successfully removed an obstacle which seriously endangered the success of the entire battalion mission. Due to his gallant leadership the bridge over the Waal River was captured intact with reduced casualties. First Lieutenant Wray died from the wounds received in this engagement. His exemplary courage was typical of the outstanding performance achieved by this officer in every action in which he fought. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.