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 First Sergeant Richard F. Beasley (ASN: 15112810), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery A, 81st Airborne Antiaircraft Battalion, 101st Airborne Division. On 21 December 1944 in the vicinity of Foy, Belgium, the enemy launched a determined attack on the positions of his unit with infantry supported by tanks. Poor visibility necessitated the movement of his anti-tank gun from its entrenched position to an exposed location thereby providing a better field of fire. Disregarding the danger of enemy fire which completely raked the area, First Sergeant Beasley remained at this position acting as server and observer for the gun. Exhibiting outstanding courage and coolness in the face of intense enemy fire, he assisted in destroying the enemy tank. When an enemy shell exploded near his position, he was mortally wounded. His actions were in accordance with the military traditions of the United States.