The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Richard D. Fravel (ASN: 35291836), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action against the enemy on **** 1943, about five miles from ****, Italy. When part of his platoon was obliged to withdraw to better positions before superior enemy forces and firepower, Private First Class Fravel, first gunner in a machine gun platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, voluntarily and single-handedly set up his machine gun above an ammunition box and held up the attacking hostile troops until withdrawal had been effectively accomplished. 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.