The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Ralph P. Thompkins (ASN: 33525055), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. During the action near the Medical Building of the University of the Philippines in Manila on 10 February 1945, Private Thompkins served as a volunteer member of a litter team which was sent forward from the battalion aid station to evacuate a seriously wounded soldier. The route to the front lines was under continual hostile mortar fire, and although two members of the group were wounded by enemy fire, the injuries were not serious enough to delay the litter team. Upon reaching the Medical Building it was discovered that the casualty was lying in front of the structure, completely exposed to Japanese fire. Rather than risk the lives of the entire litter squad, Private Thompkins courageously went out alone to the aid of the wounded man. Although enemy bullets kicked up dirt all around him, he successfully dragged his comrade to the building, where first aid was administered. The wounded man was then carried back by the litter team over the same, hazardous route to the battalion aid station. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.