The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Richard J. Butler (ASN: 42090244), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 24 January 1945, in the vicinity of Bennwihr, France. As Aid Man attached to Company K, Private Butler was subjected to intense enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire. Under these hazardous conditions, he moved from fox holes to trenches administering first aid. With utter disregard for his personal safety, it was necessary for him to expose himself to enemy fire for extended periods. He moved forward to a position under enemy observation to give aid to a wounded soldier. When nearly in reach of the wounded man, Private Butler was hit by enemy sniper fire and killed. 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.