Velpeau C. Thomas

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Velpeau C. Thomas (0-98055), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on January 31, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Second Lieutenant Thomas upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.