The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fourth Grade Raymond A. Mercier (ASN: 32040824), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with a Medical Detachment of the 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division, while temporarily attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. During a bitterly fought engagement with the enemy, Sergeant Mercier evacuated the wounded over roads shelled incessantly by enemy artillery and mortar fire. Although he endangered his life by his courageous action, he refused to take cover until he had successfully accomplished his mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.