The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Ray Avera, Jr. (NSN: 3826736), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 24 April 1951. Hospitalman Avera displayed outstanding courage and initiative when the platoon was subjected to a violent, night-long attack by a numerically superior enemy force. Exposing himself without regard for his personal safety to devastating enemy mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire, he continually moved through the position rendering aid to the casualties and dragging them to covered positions. Courageously answering a call from a seriously wounded man in a forward position, he proceeded unhesitatingly along a fire-swept ridge line to reach him. Despite the fact that he was painfully wounded by an enemy bullet, he continued forward, and rendered skillful first aid. In carrying his wounded comrade back to safety, he was hit for a second time, and forced to submit to evacuation. His great personal bravery and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Avera’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.