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 Corporal Richard Emery Babin (ASN: 31188466), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 30th Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized), 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 August 1944, in France. Corporal Babin was serving as a Squad Leader with his Reconnaissance Troop engaged in action against the enemy, and was given the mission of landing a patrol into enemy-held territory. The patrol was ambushed by hostile troops who had held their fire until the patrol was a short distance away. Realizing that an immediate withdrawal was the only possible maneuver which could save his patrol from destruction, Corporal Babin voluntarily exposed himself to the enemy fire and remained in this hazardous position, pinning down the enemy with his rifle fire until his patrol successfully withdrew. Despite the intensity of the enemy fire, Corporal Babin remained at his post. His heroic act resulted in the loss of his life. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Corporal Babin, 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.