The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Thomas E. Richards (MCSN: 501361), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Second Battalion, Twenty-Fourth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan Island, Mariana Islands, from 15 June to 4 July 1944. Courageous in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Private First Class Richards landed on Saipan during initial operations on this strategically important island and immediately requested and received permission to act as company aid man with an assault rifle company, faithfully performing his extremely hazardous duties with exceptional skill and courage. Voluntarily leaving his covered position on 4 July, Private First Class Richards daringly proceeded under heavy sniper and machine-gun fire to the aid of a wounded officer and a corpsman and was killed by hostile sniper fire while administering first aid. His self-sacrificing spirit and determined efforts in behalf of others reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Richards and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.