The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Richard Joseph Keller, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company E, 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces during the Battle on Hill 700 at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 11 and 12 March 1944. In a bitter engagement, the nature of which precluded the support of either tanks or artillery, Captain Keller pressed a vigorous, determined advance until darkness halted the action. Throughout the 5 1/2 hour attack on the following day, he was in the forefront of the lines, shouting encouragement to his men and repeatedly exposing himself to the sweeping fire of the enemy to gain the best vantage point from which to direct the assault. He maneuvered his troops with exceptional tactical skill and energy, exerting unrelenting pressure on the firmly-established enemy and inspiring his men to push forward despite great hazards. After all but one dominant fortification had been destroyed by riflemen, flame throwers, rocket launchers, and grenades he leaped over the crest of the hill into the face of the enemy and led a final, furious charge which ultimately overran the Japanese position and liquidated all enemy opposition. Although he was wounded critically in this last charge, his heroic actions inspired his company to continue their devastating assault until the Japanese were annihilated. Captain Keller’s superior leadership and battle courage prevented the enemy from occupying a strategic position which constituted threat to the American beachhead at Empress Augusta Bay. Captain Keller’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.