The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Ralph Lester Ramey (NSN: 0-74910), United States Navy, for meritorious performance of duty as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. McCOOK (DD-496) in action against the German coastal defenses and troop concentrations on the coast of France on 6, 7, and 8 June 1944. As a unit of the Close Fire Support Group the McCOOK closed the range to the beaches and while under enemy artillery fire delivered an accurate and effective fire on enemy artillery and mortar emplacements and on enemy troop concentrations which were firing on our troops on the landing beaches and holding up their advance. Lieutenant Commander Ramey skillfully and efficiently handled his ship and directed the fire of his batteries so that this Fire Support was of invaluable aid to our own forces. His courageous devotion to duty reflects great credit upon Lieutenant Commander Ramey and on the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Ralph Lester Ramey (NSN: 0-74910), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as the Commanding Officer of the Destroyer-Transport U.S.S. McKean (APD-5) during the occupation of Rendova Island and the attack on New Georgia Islands in June and July of 1943. Lieutenant Ramey, on several occasions, carried troops and supplies into waters frequented by Japanese surface vessels and submarines. His ship was repeatedly subjected to enemy air and submarine attack and bombardment by shore batteries. By his skill and determination, he successfully completed each mission assigned to him, and repulsed all attacks without damage to his ship. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.