Thomas E. Bulger

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Bulger (0-50747), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company in Korea, on 31 January 1953. Serving as Platoon Commander of a reinforced unit during a raid against a strongly defended enemy position, First Lieutenant Bulger displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. During the advance, he fearlessly directed the assault in the face of heavy enemy resistance and expressed complete disregard for his personal safety in order to maintain the forward momentum. Advancing with the forward elements of the assault force, he moved through the intense fire of enemy machine guns, small arms and grenades. As he neared the crest of the objective, he was blown back by the detonation of a satchel charge thrown at him from the hostile trenches. Despite this and the intensified enemy fire, he continued the assault and maintained contact with the enemy for approximately fifty-five minutes. Having inflicted heavy casualties on the entrenched enemy he skillfully disengaged his unit and withdrew to friendly lines. First Lieutenant Bulger’s gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas E. Bulger (0-50747), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Commanding Officer, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 4, 1969. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Lieutenant Colonel Bulger upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.