The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Richard E. Dougherty, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 10 January 1943. While on patrol in front of the company lines, Sergeant Dougherty located three enemy machine gun positions. He reported the information to his company commander and volunteered to return to the area to act as observer for direction of mortar fire on them. He ventured to within 100 yards of one enemy emplacement, bringing with him a field telephone to maintain communication with the company commander. The information furnished by Sergeant Dougherty from this forward position enabled the mortar crew to adjust their fire and obtain a direct hit, putting the gun out of action. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.