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 Private First Class Wallace L. Richards (ASN: 34674805), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 June 1944, near Campolione, Italy. When the rifle platoon which he was supporting was fired upon by a number of enemy machine guns, Private First Class Richards promptly set up his heavy machine gun to cover the movement of the platoon to better positions. Remaining until all elements had displaced, Private First Class Richards then began crawling to the new position with his platoon. As he passed a vineyard several well-concealed Germans ordered him and his companions to surrender. Rising and rushing the enemy, Private First Class Richards was killed by enemy fire. Private First Class Richard’s gallantry and self-sacrificing performance reflect the high traditions of the Army of the Untied States.