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), [then Captain] Richard W. Williams (ASN: 0-47344), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. In the vicinity of Haman, Korea, on 3 September 1950, hostile elements had infiltrated behind friendly lines to harass supply lines and establish road blocks. Organizing his men under intense small arms and machine gun fire, Major Williams led them through a series of sharp fire fights to eliminate the enemy threats. After completing the mission, he mounted the exposed deck of a tank to man its machine gun and spearhead an assault on the main hostile position, that forced the foe to withdraw. Major Williams valorous leadership, aggressive spirit and selfless devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Armed Forces.