The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Wendell O. Bray (ASN: 13014469), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during the period from February through July 1943. Although enemy forces threatened to encircle his squad, Sergeant Bray continued manning his mortar and succeeded in inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy forces. His courageous stand materially aided his company in obtaining its objective. 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.