Thomas P. Genette

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Five, Thomas P. Genette, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam: Specialist Five Genette distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 29 August 1969 while serving as crew chief of an ambulance aircraft dispatched for an urgent medical evacuation southwest of Duc Pho where an infantry unit had been ambushed by a large North Vietnamese force. Despite intense mortar, rocket-propelled grenade and automatic weapons fire, Specialist Genette immediately debarked when the craft landed and began carrying the wounded to the helicopter. Although exploding rounds rocked the landing zone, Specialist Genette completed the evacuation and returned twice more for pick-ups. His actions were instrumental in saving the lives of thirty-three wounded American soldiers. Specialist Five Genette’s gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.