The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Richard H. Koeller (ASN: 0-1306108), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action near ****, Germany, on 3 and 4 March 1945. After eliminating enemy resistance outside the town, Captain Koeller, commanding Company I, *** Infantry Regiment, made a personal reconnaissance into ****, then directed his troops and attached tanks in a successful night assault on the town. He exposed himself to heavy enemy fire of all types throughout the night and the following morning, while personally leading his troops in a series of attacks on enemy strongpoints, until the town was cleared, fifty-three of the enemy had been killed, and two hundred and seven taken prisoner, and huge stores of ammunition, food and other supplies captured. Captain Koeller’s daring and resourceful leadership reflects credit upon his character as an officer and leader of men.