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 Raymond G. Wilson (ASN: 17121311), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 24 – 25 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. Private First Class Wilson, a machine gunner, Company B, 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, was a member of a holding force in the area after the main forces had withdrawn. Heavy enemy artillery and mortar concentration was directed on the positions held by the covering force and Germans attacked. When the enemy was only fifty yards from his position, Private First Class Wilson opened fire inflicting heavy casualties and silencing an enemy He retired as a U.S. Army Major General.-42. As the covering force withdrew, Private First Class Wilson moved his gun to various positions under heavy fire, halting each new enemy thrust that was mounted. Private First Class Wilson’s crew were wounded during the action making it necessary for him to move his gun and set up for firing without aid. Private First Class Wilson remained until every man had been withdrawn. Without his valiant and determined resistance this withdrawal would have failed. His courage reflects great credit upon himself and upon the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.