The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Richard G. Valentine (ASN: 0-343369), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 242d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 25 February 1945 at Kaltenhouse, France. While serving as Executive Officer, 2nd Battalion, 242d Infantry, Major Valentine was at the Battalion Observation Post when the enemy launched an attack near the Moder River on 25 February 1945. Exposing himself to heavy enemy artillery, mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire, he directed and supervised the employment of the reserve company of his battalion, and organized a counter-attack which halted the enemy penetration and stopped the German attack. His outstanding leadership and tactical ability were reflected in the repulse of the enemy attack and the capture of 43 prisoners.