The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class [then Private First Class] Joe M. Richardson (ASN: RA-14047763), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, displayed gallantry in action on 13 February 1951 in the vicinity of Chipyong-ni, Korea. On that date he was leading a machine gun squad in the heavy weapons platoon of Company E, Which was subjected to a severe attack by a numerically superior enemy force. During the attack the gunner was wounded. Sergeant Richardson left his covered position, crawled to the wounded man and, under intense fire, administered first aid and moved the wounded man to a safe position. Returning to the machine gun, he delivered accurate and effective fire upon the onrushing enemy until his ammunition was expended. Refusing to seek cover, he then moved from man to man, encouraging and directing their fire. When an enemy machine gun opened fire, causing several casualties, Sergeant Richardson immediately moved forward. Acting as a forward observer, he skillfully directed friendly mortar fire on the enemy position, destroying it. The unselfish devotion to duty and gallantry displayed by Sergeant Richardson reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.