*EUBANKS, RAY E.
Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S.
Army, Company D, 503d Parachute Infantry. Place and date: At Noemfoor Island,
Dutch New Guinea, 23 July 1944. Entered service at: LaGrange, N.C. Born:
6 February 1922, Snow Hill, N.C. G.O. No.: 20, 29 March 1945.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty at Noemfoor Island, Dutch New Guinea, 23 July 1944. While moving to the
relief of a platoon isolated by the enemy, his company encountered a strong enemy position
supported by machinegun, rifle, and mortar fire. Sgt. Eubanks was ordered to make an
attack with 1 squad to neutralize the enemy by fire in order to assist the advance of his
company. He maneuvered his squad to within 30 yards of the enemy where heavy fire checked
his advance. Directing his men to maintain their fire, he and 2 scouts worked their way
forward up a shallow depression to within 25 yards of the enemy. Directing the scouts to
remain in place, Sgt. Eubanks armed himself with an automatic rifle and worked himself
forward over terrain swept by intense fire to within 15 yards of the enemy position when
he opened fire with telling effect. The enemy, having located his position, concentrated
their fire with the result that he was wounded and a bullet rendered his rifle useless. In
spite of his painful wounds he immediately charged the enemy and using his weapon as a
club killed 4 of the enemy before he was himself again hit and killed. Sgt. Eubanks'
heroic action, courage, and example in leadership so inspired his men that their advance
was successful. They killed 45 of the enemy and drove the remainder from the position,
thus effecting the relief of our beleaguered troops.
