Alfred I. Thomas

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star Medal to Alfred I. Thomas (0-45440), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion in Korea, from 1 to 18 March 1951. First Lieutenant Thomas, serving as Company Commander of an Infantry Company, displayed outstanding skill, courage and confidence in the performance of his duties. Throughout this period, he, by his outstanding professional knowledge of infantry tactics, aggressiveness and initiative, was directly instrumental in the successful accomplishment of all missions assigned his Company. On one occasions, his company was assigned the mission of seizing a hill west of Hoengsong, Korea, that had been taken and lost by friendly forces on four different occasions. After thorough planning and a detailed briefing of his four platoon commanders, he accompanied the leading elements of his company in the assault on the heavily defended enemy position. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continually exposed himself to heavy enemy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire while directing the attack. Inspired by his courageous actions, his company culminated the attack with a bayonet charge, which resulted in the complete annihilation of the enemy forces and the capture of numerous rifles, machine guns, grenades and other enemy material. His aggressive actions and devotion to duty served as an inspiration for all who observed him and contributed materially to the success achieved by his company. First Lieutenant Thomas’ heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.