The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate Third Class William Arthur Richards, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Petty Officer-in-Charge of an ammunition handling room on the United States Minesweeper U.S.S. RODMAN (DD-456) at Okinawa Gunto on 6 April 1945. When a serious fire caused by an enemy suicide plane crashing ship broke out in his handling room, he remained courageously at his station to direct the evacuation of personnel and ammunition. By his cool and steady manner he aided materially in the successful removal of ammunition though one projectile had already exploded and the remainder was a source of imminent danger. His outstanding performance was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.