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 Bergie L. Rickard (ASN: 33661525), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 April 1945, in Germany. When he was separated from his unit during a withdrawal, Staff Sergeant Rickard courageously proceeded alone through enemy territory, firing each time he was challenged by enemy sentries and then skirting the position, until he eventually succeeded in rejoining his unit. Staff Sergeant Rickard killed an estimated twelve of the enemy during this period. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Rickard, 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.