(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) William D. Ratchford, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations in 1944 and 1945. 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.