The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant] Richard M. Blatchford (ASN: 36603290), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division on 26 July 1944, in France. Sergeant Blatchford was assigned to duty as the platoon leader of an infantry organization engaged in a heavy fire fight with the enemy. Several of his comrades, including the platoon first aid man, became casualties. Sergeant Blatchford, without hesitation and with complete disregard for his personal safety, left his shelter and moved from place to place on the battlefield rendering first aid and evacuating the wounded to a less dangerous position. These actions, representing extreme loyalty to his comrades, undoubtedly saved the lives of at least four of them. The gallant unselfishness and personal bravery exhibited by Sergeant Blatchford are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.