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 Private First Class Earl V. Richards (ASN: 32946700), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 22 February 1945, in Germany. When five enemy fighter bombers suddenly attacked his battalion’s positions, Private First Class Richards quickly mounted the machine gun in his vehicle. Although he knew that he was making himself a target, he continued firing each time the enemy planes passed overhead. While he was firing at one of the planes, another dove on his vehicle from behind dropping a bomb which killed Private First Class Richards. His great heroism at the cost of his life will remain a lasting inspiration to his comrades and was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.