The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Technical Sergeant] Charlie H. Richards (ASN: 33369948), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the *** Infantry Regiment, 83d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 4 July 1944, near ****, France. Staff Sergeant Richards, then serving as stenographer and guard to the regimental commander, volunteered to undertake to complete the communication line between the regimental observation and command posts. With another enlisted man, he made his way back from the observation post, completing the communication. Throughout this action the area was being subjected to intense enemy shelling and small arms fire. Staff Sergeant Richards’ conspicuous devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the finest traditions of the military service.