The Secretary of the Army of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Army Commendation Medal to Specialist Fourth Class Ray Richard Cowden (ASN: RA-18840956), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious service during the period April 1967 to April 1968 in support of the United States objectives in the counterinsurgency effort in the Republic of Vietnam. Through his outstanding professional competence and devotion to duty, he consistently obtained superior results. Working long and arduous hours, he set an example that inspired his associates to strive for maximum achievement. The loyalty, initiative, and will to succeed that he demonstrated at all times materially contributed to the successful accomplishment of the mission of his command. His performance was in the best traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division and the military service.