Raymond E. Couch

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Raymond E. Couch (34195683), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 39th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division. On 12 August 1943, in the vicinity of Randazzo, Sicily, Private First Class Couch, a member of the intelligence platoon, went forward to assist in setting up an advance communications switch. After several vehicles had been destroyed by enemy fire, resulting in the death and injury of several of his comrades, Private First Class Couch voluntarily risked his life to remove a radio vehicle into a concealed position. In addition, he volunteered to use a mine detector to locate and remove mines along the road, although he had no previous experience in such work. Through his clearance of the road, medical aid was enabled to reach the casualties and evacuate them. All these actions of Private First Class Couch were under direct enemy observation and artillery fire and were accomplished with complete disregard for personal safety. His courage and bravery were outstanding and his steadfast devotion to duty and deeds beyond the call of duty are examples of the highest ideals of the Military Service.