The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) Richard P. Trauth (ASN: 0-390458), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 230th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 22 November 1944, in Germany. During an attack, fire from an enemy tank halted the advance of the infantry unit to which Captain Trauth was attached. He had established an observation post in the top floor of a barn and was adjusting artillery fire when enemy tank fire partially demolished the building. He moved to the third floor of a nearby building and began to direct fire on the tank. The second post was subjected to artillery fire, which necessitated another change. Setting up the third observation post, he adjusted the fire of the battalion and several tank destroyers, causing the tank to retreat. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Trauth, 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.