The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Richard F. McDonald (ASN: 6975044), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa in 1943. Corporal McDonald, when ordered to attempt to save four vehicles under his control from an encircled position, personally drove one of the vehicles and ordered the other drivers to follow him through heavy enemy fire to a place of safety. Later he guided our tanks to this encircled position and succeeded in liberating a group of soldiers trapped by the enemy. 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 and the United States Army.