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 O. Prendergast (ASN: 0-441270), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Reconnaissance Platoon, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 28 April 1945, near ****, Germany. First Lieutenant Prendergast, Section Leader, led an eight man night patrol across the Elbe River to the German Shore to the south. He moved his patrol eastward across the marshes toward a farmhouse, where he had observed a sentry on duty. With utter disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Prendergast stormed the house, overwhelmed the guard and completely surprised the sixteen occupants. He returned to the river and crossed to the friendly shore with the prisoners during the early daylight hours. This gallant action enabled the Division, through prisoner interrogation, to successfully attack and cross the river the following day. 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.