Thomas J. Eichler

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Thomas J. Eichler, Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam, while serving as Weapons Platoon Sergeant with Company E, Second Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division. During the early morning hours of 5 February 1968, when Company E’s defensive position on Hill 861A near Khe Sanh was attacked by an estimated two North Vietnamese Army companies utilizing mortars, grenades, automatic weapons, and small arms, Corporal Eichler left his position with the rear elements and volunteered to assist the First Platoon which had sustained numerous casualties. With complete disregard for his own safety, he courageously made three trips to the forward position and evacuated wounded men to a safe area. Subsequently, when the enemy force penetrated the defensive perimeter, Corporal Eichler aided in the counterattack by bringing ammunition re-supplies to the command post and front line positions. His courageous actions with complete disregard for his own safety, enabled the unit to deliver an uninterrupted volume of effective fire, repulsing the attackers. Corporal Eichler’s courage, bold initiative, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of intense enemy fire were an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.