The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Coast Artillery Corps) Richard Edward O’Connor (ASN: 0-16485), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with as Executive Officer of the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, on 18 July 1943. After our forces had captured strategic ground preparatory to an attack on an important enemy town, Colonel O’Connor voluntarily supervised mechanized reconnaissance patrols into enemy territory. Although forewarned of the strength of enemy defenses, he boldly advanced upon them, and was killed by enemy machine gun fire. His determination to accomplish this mission and thereby assist in furthering the division’s advance inspired all who saw him. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel ) O’Connor, 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.