Thomas M. Stokes

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas M. Stokes, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Division TEN (DesDiv 10), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Commander Stokes was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his country’s forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, Commander Stokes contributed largely to the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas M. Stokes (0-64904), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Operations Officer, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on February 18 – 22, 1967. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Stokes upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.