The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class Ray N. Hughes (ASN: 16042711), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 185th Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 3 May 1945 near Patog, Negros, Philippine Islands. Private Hughes was lead scout of an infantry platoon of Company B which was moving in single file along a narrow ridge flanked by deep, precipitous ravines. Ahead of the platoon were six enemy positions, three on either side of the route of advance, with interlocking bands of fire. After signaling the platoon to halt, Private Hughes moved forward cautiously, surprised the enemy in the first two positions, and killed both. As he continued onward, the enemy in the next two foxholes detected his presence at the moment that he saw them; but his alertness enabled him to shoot and kill both before they could take aim. The remaining enemy in the last two positions had been alerted by this action, and a machine gun in one of the positions opened fire as he advanced. He quickly killed the machine gunner with a hand grenade and shot the sixth Japanese with his rifle. By his extraordinary heroism and aggressive action, Private Hughes destroyed single-handed, six enemy positions guarding the trail from Lantawan to Patog. Private First Class Hughes’ extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.