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 Raymond T. Eareckson (ASN: 33098996), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 3d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 3 January 1945, near ****, Belgium. Moving his light machine gun section into position in order to furnish close fire support, Sergeant Eareckson, by his own fearlessness and aggressiveness, so inspired his two gun crews that they were able to get into exceptionally close positions with their basic loads despite a constant hail of enemy artillery and small arms fire. Heedless of his own safety, Sergeant Eareckson exposed himself many times as he moved about the gun positions to better lay fire upon the enemy. The curtain of lead laid by this section forced the enemy to fall back, allowing our riflemen to reach their objective. The gallantry and courageous aggressiveness displayed by Sergeant Eareckson were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Airborne Forces.