The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Richard Fitzgerald (MCSN: 651907), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of Company G, Third Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 30 November 1950. When the company was subjected to withering enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire from an enemy roadblock and a friendly tank was ordered to the area to neutralize the roadblock, Private First Class Fitzgerald volunteered to accompany the vehicle to protect it from enemy infantrymen. Courageously moving forward through the hail of enemy fire, he refused to seek cover and remained with the tank until the roadblock was destroyed. By his exceptional courage, daring initiative and aggressive fighting spirit, Private First Class Fitzgerald served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.