The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Third Grade Richard J. McGrath (ASN: 31210461), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 313th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 July 1944, in France. While leading a litter squad to evacuate wounded under intense enemy fire, Technical Third Grade McGrath observed a friendly tank that had been disabled and had begun to burn. Braving the enemy fire directed on the tank and the possibility of ammunition in the vehicle exploding, as well as the fire itself, he proceeded to evacuate the wounded from the tank. He was able to remove two of the crew before the heat and flames became unbearable, forcing him to abandon it. Then directing that one of the injured be placed on the single litter, he personally carried the other wounded man to the aid station for medical care. The courage and devotion to duty exhibited by Technician Third Grade McGrath reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.