The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Alvin G. Richmond (MCSN: 403391), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company L, Third Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during actions against enemy Japanese forces on Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, 23 November 1943. With his platoon pressing an attack against a bitterly defended Japanese pillbox, Private First Class Richmond boldly made his way through intense enemy machine-gun and rifle fire to a location behind the hostile fortifications, voluntarily assuming station there in order to prevent the escape of any member of the enemy force. Covering the rear exit of the emplacement with his ready weapon, he succeeded in killing more then twenty Japanese attempting to flee as the frontal assault of their pillbox increased in intensity. His daring initiative, heroic conduct and unswerving devotion to duty in the face of grave danger were inspiring to those with whom he served and reflect the highest credit upon Private First Class Richmond and the United States Naval Service.