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 Ralph D. Casas (ASN: 39346741), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 101st Airborne Division. On 7 June 1944, his company was making a flanking attack on a well emplaced enemy defending an important objective about one mile from Houcsville, France. In the attack his platoon leader was seriously wounded in the upper hip and back by enemy machine gun fire. So severe were his injuries that he was unable to move and was lying in a position covered by enemy fire. Private Casas was, at the time, on the other side of a train completely covered by fire from the enemy machine gun. Realizing that if not treated immediately, his platoon commander would probably lose his life, Private Casas left his position and with utter disregard for his own safety, moved across the trail through the enemy fire and reached the wounded officer. In spite of heavy enemy small arms fire, he dragged the Lieutenant to a defilade position where first aid could be given and evacuation was possible. By his display of outstanding courage and fearlessness, he saved his officer’s life. His actions were in accord with the military traditions of the United States.