The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Richard D. McCracken (ASN: 37194104), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 July 1944, in France. When the enemy launched a counterattack with six tanks and supporting infantrymen, Staff Sergeant McCracken’s tank was the only one available to meet the attack. Despite the combined fire of the enemy tanks which was striking on all sides, Staff Sergeant McCracken coolly directed the fire of his tank upon the enemy column. So accurate and devastating was his fire that one of the enemy tanks was knocked out and the remainder of the attacking forces withdrew. Staff Sergeant McCracken’s gallant act was an inspiration to the other members of his unit and reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.