'At the Somme on the night of 25/26th September 1916, Private Richards displayed conspicuous gallantry in carrying out his duties as Battalion Headquarters Runner. About 10pm he was called upon to deliver an important message to O.C. Working Party in Fish Alley near Flers. The enemy barrage was very heavy at the time but notwithstanding this Richards got through. On his return to Battalion Headquarters he was again called upon to deliver a despatch to O.C. Party working on Turk Lane near Abbey Road. In carrying on this duty Richards had to pass through a heavy fire swept zone. At great personal risk he worked his way through and completed his duty, returning to Battalion Headquarters in a very exhausted condition. All this work was carried out with fearlessness and despatch.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 14 July 1917