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 Aubrey M. Rayburn (ASN: 20432765), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 773d Tank Destroyer Battalion on 20 August 1944, in the vicinity of Chambois, France. During an attack on the town, Sergeant Rayburn, Gun Commander, and his crew were isolated in an exposed position and subjected to continuous enemy heavy artillery, mortar and small arms fire. At risk of his life, Sergeant Rayburn maintained his position and directed his crew with such expert efficiency and cool courage that they destroyed five enemy tanks, one self-propelled gun and captured twenty-five enemy infantrymen. His gallantry was in accordance with high military tradition.