The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lance Corporal John Hencell Richards, Jr. (MCSN: 2354831), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company A, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 22 January 1969, during Operation TAYLOR COMMON, Lance Corporal Richards’ platoon was conducting a patrol in the An Hoa area when the point element came under intense automatic weapons fire and was temporarily pinned down. Reacting instantly, Lance Corporal Richards began to maneuver his fire team across the hazardous terrain to a vantage point from which to direct fire against the enemy. When one of his men fell wounded in an area dangerously exposed to hostile fire, Lance Corporal Richards completely disregarded his own safety as he moved across the fire-swept terrain to aid the injured Marine. Although sustaining a severe wound, Lance Corporal Richards ignored his painful injury and the hostile rounds impacting near him and continued to assist his companion until he was directed to withdraw to a more secure position where he received medical treatment and was evacuated. His prompt and fearless actions inspired all who observed him and contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. By his courage, sincere concern for his fellowman and selfless devotion to duty at personal risk, Lance Corporal Richards upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.