The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Richard K. Updegraff (ASN: 35015319), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 February 1945. During the fire in Manila, Sergeant Updegraff volunteered to rescue casualties who were in danger of being enveloped by the flames. Under hostile machine gun fire he removed the wreckage that almost completely covered a wounded man and carried him a distance of 50 yards to safety. Still under fire, he carried another wounded man out of the flame-swept area, administered first aid, secured the aid of three men and a litter, and helped carry the casualty to the rear. Sergeant Updegraff’s conspicuous bravery saved the lives of the two wounded men. 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.