The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Sergeant [then Staff Sergeant] Richard Emery Rider (ASN: 35500015), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Battery A, 80th Airborne Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 82d Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 13 June 1944, near Baupte, Normandy, France, while leading a combat patrol of a parachute infantry regiment. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, First Sergeant Rider exposed himself fearlessly to enemy machine guns and cannon fire in order to direct the fire of his antitank guns. When one gun was attacked by five enemy tanks, First Sergeant Rider personally took over for the gunner and directed fire against the approaching enemy. The first tank was destroyed immediately, as were the second and third in rapid succession. The other two tanks retreated to a position in less dangerous territory. First Sergeant Rider followed, placing his gun in a location from where it could deliver destructive fire. From this position he destroyed both remaining tanks and the German crews were destroyed by our infantry. By his fearless attention to the mission he was able to destroy completely the enemy tank threat, and his determination and enthusiasm supported him to pursue and destroy the remaining tanks. His courage and force before the entire patrol were of high standard and exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States, reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Army. Great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Army. Great credit upon himself, the 82d Airborne Division, and the United States Army.