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 First Class Ralph J. Levesque (ASN: 31372902), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 27 April 1945. During an attack against the enemy, the platoon of which Private First Class Levesque was a member was pinned down by heavy machine gun fire from a concealed enemy position. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Private First Class Levesque moved forward to locate the enemy position. While he was advancing on the position, this brave soldier was wounded by machine gun fire. Courageously remaining forward, Private First Class Levesque engaged the enemy in a fire fight and then directed accurate mortar fire which neutralized the enemy emplacement. Private First Class Levesque’s great courage, daring initiative, and zealous devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the military service.