The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Richard E. Strehle, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 7th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in on 2 February 1944, during the Kwajalein Campaign. Lieutenant Strehle’s Infantry platoon was halted by determined firer from an enemy pillbox. Lacking radio communication facilities to call for supporting weapons, he advanced across 50 yards of open terrain, placing an explosive charge on the pillbox. After the charge had gone off, he charged the position and threw hand grenades, reducing it completely. It was then discovered that this pillbox contained 21 Japanese soldiers. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.