Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Richard William Welch (ASN: RA-11622174), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Private First Class Welch distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 13 September 1968, while serving with Company B, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry Regiment, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate), in the vicinity of Duc Lap. At approximately 0930 hours, under heavy overcast and intermittent rain, Company B moved out on a reconnaissance in force mission. As they advanced to their objective through dense vegetation and over rugged terrain they suddenly came under extremely heavy fire from an estimated company-size hostile force. Private First Class Welch, a machine gunner, immediately responded by placing maximum effective fire on the enemy and providing cover for the men in his platoon, allowing them to move forward. Disregarding his personal safety, he continued to advance from position to position, time and again exposing himself to heavy enemy fire in order to continue placing intensive fire on the enemy. He inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy force and his timely and effective fire enabled the men of his company to maneuver against the hostiles. As he again maneuvered towards the enemy, he was struck and fatally wounded by hostile automatic weapons fire. His aggressive actions resulted in the saving of many lives throughout his platoon and company and directly contributed to the success of their mission. Private First Class Welch’s initiative, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Awards Received