The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Ralph O. Emmert, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 76th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. Private First Class Emmert’s platoon was dug in at a point so thickly wooded that it became necessary to establish an observation post across an open field in the edge of the woods known to be occupied by the enemy. Private Emmert began to lay wire to the newly selected position across the open field which was being subjected to heavy enemy machine gun fire. Disregarding warnings of danger, he crawled forward and paused only after phone contacts had been made. Uninjured, he operated his phone, enabling effective mortar fire to be brought upon the enemy. 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 and the United States Army.