- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Sergeant
- Unit:
- Company C, 1st Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division "Red Arrow", U.S. Army (Company C, 1st Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment, 32nd Infantry Division "Red Arrow", U.S. Army)
- Awarded on:
- 1944
Action account:
"When his squad leader was wouded during an enemy attack, in a recent action, Richards assumed command without hesitation. He ordered his squad to withdraw from their positions to avoid the overwhelming power of a Japanese onslaught. Advancing toward the enemy to provide fire to cover the movement of his unit, he also attempted to rescue a wounded comrade. Exposing himself to the withering Nip firepower. Sgt. Richards was killed just as he reached the man. His courageous action made it possible for the remainder of the squad to complete its movement without a casualty."
General Orders No. 81, Headquarters 32d Infantry Division (1944).
Awarded posthumously.