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 Staff Sergeant Ray P. Armstrong (ASN: 39242272), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 18 February 1945. When the squad led by Sergeant Armstrong attacked a strong enemy emplacement, it met heavy machine gun fire which seriously wounded two men. The casualties were lying in an exposed position and Sergeant Armstrong realized that immediate evacuation was necessary. Placing the remainder of his squad in a covered position, he personally crawled into the clearing, administered first aid, and aided the two men in reaching a position of safety, although hostile fire from the Japanese emplacement swept the area. After supervising the evacuation of the wounded men, Sergeant Armstrong rejoined his squad and led it in an attack which successfully reduced the enemy position. 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.