The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ship’s Cook Third Class Ray Alred, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a member of the gun crew of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), during her action in the Battle of Samar Island on 25 October 1944. Ship’s Cook Third Class Alred displayed exceptional courage in continuing to man his gun through a very serious enemy attack. He contributed to the successful performance of his ship against a numerically superior Japanese Task Force. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.