Ray enlisted in the Army at Fort MacArthur, San Pedro, CA on 28 April 1944.

On 13 February 1945, Pvt Helton was transferred from the 3rd Replacement Depot to Company D, 508th PIR.

He was promoted to Pfc on 20 March 1945.

Pfc Helton was transferred to the 101st Airborne Division, 506th PIR on 13 October 1945.

He arrived in New York, NY on 3 January 1946 having sailed from from Southampton, England aboard Queen Mary [see line 33].

Ray's remains were cremated, disposition of ashes unknown