The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Richard H. Alexandre (MCSN: 857274), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Section Leader in a Special Weapons Platoon of Headquarters Company, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 28 May 1945. When his section was advancing to gain command of a strongly-defended hostile position on high ground, Corporal Alexandre volunteered to go approximately seventy-five yards beyond the lines to destroy this stronghold with a demolition charge. Braving heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire, he placed the demolition charge and succeeded in sealing the cave, killing many of the Japanese. By his initiative and aggressive fighting spirit, he enabled his company to continue its advance with a minimum of casualties. His courage under fire was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.