The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Chemical Warfare Service) Ralph R. Wance (ASN: 0-1037353), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action at ****, Germany, on 6 March 1945. Lieutenant Wance was directing the fire of his unit in support of an infantry company when the enemy commenced an intense barrage. Disregarding personal safety, he left his position and exposed himself to the enemy artillery fire in order to direct more accurately the fire of his mortars. While so engaged, an enemy shell fragment smashed his wrist watch, but Lieutenant Wance gallantly remained exposed to the enemy fire and continued to direct his weapons. His actions are in accord with the military traditions of the United States.