The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Field Artillery) Ralph L. Paddock, Jr. (ASN: 0-306892), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 32d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of El Guettar, Tunisia, on 23 March 1943. 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.