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 Johnson (ASN: 11007702), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 27 January 1945, in the vicinity of Jebsheim, France. Sergeant Johnson’s company had been delayed in the attack by light machine gun fire from a concrete enemy bunker. Disregarding his own safety, he moved up to the enemy emplacement, moving cautiously to the rear. Constantly under heavy enemy artillery and machine gun fire, he was successful in reaching the rear door of the bunker. Hearing voices inside, Sergeant Johnson ordered the enemy to surrender. By his magnificent display of courage, Sergeant Johnson was alone responsible for reducing the resistance and for the capture of thirty-two prisoners. 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.