The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Ralph L. Bailey (ASN: 12019117), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Assi bon Okba, Algeria, on 8 November 1942. During the Oran Offensive, Private Bailey volunteered to drive the jeep for the reconnaissance patrol going out to determine the effect of mortar fire of Company My, on enemy positions. When the enemy opened fire on this patrol, the officer in charge fell wounded, and Private Bailey, although himself mortally wounded, drover the vehicle to cover and pointed out the location of the enemy to his non-commissioned officer. 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.