The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Richard J. Nelson (ASN: 0-1165037), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery A, 7th Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, during July and August 1943. When attacking enemy aircraft bombed an ammunition dump, imperiling the lives of nearby personnel, Lieutenant Nelson ordered everyone to take cover, and despite exploding ammunition and continued enemy bombing, proceeded to extinguish the flames. His outstanding courage and coolness under fire are worthy of the highest praise. Lieutenant Nelson’s 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.