The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Richard R. Hallock (ASN: 0-1321116), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 6 and 7 April 1945, at ****, Germany. When his platoon was counterattacked by an enemy battalion employing rifle grenades, Panzerfaust, machine guns and supported by 88-mm. fire from two medium tanks. First Lieutenant Hallock wisely selected and defended his positions, ably organized and expertly executed his plan of defense. By his personal courage and judicious leadership his platoon was able to hold back enemy forces threatening to overrun his company command post. By his dauntless stand many American lives were saved, approximately two companies of Germans were killed or wounded, and large enemy reserves were diverted thus materially assisting the swift and spectacularly successful capture of large German forces in the Ruhr Pocket. 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.