The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Richard A. Bonelli (MCSN: 1089382), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 November 1950. Directed to man a machine gun whose crew had become casualties during a savage night attack against the company by a large enemy force, Private First Class Bonelli bravely exposed himself to devastating hostile small arms, automatic weapons and hand grenade fire and, although his assistant gunner fell wounded during the early stages of the engagement, succeeded in delivering a large volume of accurate fire upon the advancing enemy. Ordered to disengage with the enemy and withdraw to another position, he carried his machine gun and a supply of ammunition over icy terrain to the new position. When the company launched a counterattack, he again exposed himself to intense hostile fire to move from one position to another in support of the attack. By his outstanding courage, indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty, Private First Class Bonelli contributed materially to the success achieved by the company and served to inspire all who observed him, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.