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 Jerome Eckenrode (ASN: 35599973), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 736th Medium Tank Battalion (Special), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 March 1945, in Germany. When extremely heavy enemy fire halted the attack of their platoon, Corporal Eckenrode and three comrades voluntarily took two machine guns and ammunition and through a deluge of fire to the top of an embankment where they set up the guns and opened fire on the enemy. Although they were subjected to very heavy mortar and sniper fire, they gallantly remained in the hazardous position until their ammunition was expended. Their heroic efforts enabled the platoon to drive the enemy out of their position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Corporal Eckenrode, 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.