The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Ray L. Draper (ASN: 6581152), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 435th Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy) FIFTH Air Force, in action over Faisi Harbor, Solomon Islands, on 3 September 1942. Sergeant Draper was Assistant Engineer and Side Gunner on a B-17E type aircraft engaged on a reconnaissance mission over enemy air and naval bases at Buka, Kieta and Faisi. Weather conditions were so unfavorable and there was such a heavy overcast at Faisi that the run over the harbor had to be made at an altitude of 700 feet. A cargo vessel, two large flying boats and a destroyer, which was one of four warships observed in the harbor, were strafed. Despite heavy anti-aircraft fire from the warships and the shore batteries, the aircraft was able to complete its run and return to its base without damage. Sergeant Draper strafed the flying boats and manned his side guns until danger of interception was passed. His bravery and skill on this occasion are worthy of the highest commendation.