The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private First Class William Ray Andrick (ASN: 35751819), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with an Infantry Company of the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action on 12 March 1944, at Bougainville, Solomon Islands. After advancing up the steep slope to within 15 yards of the enemy-occupied hilltop, Private Andrick ran out into the path of the most intense enemy fire and made a direct frontal assault on a fortification. Standing at the entrance with a comrade, he poured a steady stream of devastating fire into the pillbox. Although he had received multiple wounds from the uninterrupted bursts of enemy fire and grenades, he displayed an absolute unconcern for his personal safety and stood his ground firing relentlessly until all the Japanese occupying the key position were eliminated. Private Andrick’s exceptional bravery and conspicuous courage inspired a fierce aggressive spirit in his platoon, adding momentum to an attack in which the Japanese forces were defeated. Private First Class Andrick’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.