The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Richard E. Maxwell (MCSN: 412442), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company K, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during an attack against enemy Japanese forces on Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands, on November 7, 1943. During an attempt to dislodge the enemy who had landed between our forces and the Laruma River, Private First Class Maxwell’s company was held up by fierce Japanese fire. Fully aware of the extreme danger, he courageously volunteered to destroy the hostile machine-gun nest and, moving forward alone, threw three hand grenades into the enemy emplacement, silencing the gun. By his indomitable fighting spirit and heroic self-sacrifice, Private First Class Maxwell upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.