The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Thomas Arthur Mesereau (ASN: 0-25822), United States Army, for (ASN: 0-25822), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 511th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 11th Airborne Division, in action against the enemy at Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 27 November 1944. Captain Mesereau was given the mission of cutting across the Leyte mountains to clear the enemy from a supply trail leading into the hills from the west coast. Food was scarce and during a 5-day period his men had only one meal. On 27 November 1944, in the face of heavy enemy machine gun and sniper fire he successfully led them up a fire-covered slope which had been cleared of trees and underbrush, affording the enemy a perfect field of fire, to wipe out a fortified enemy position in the face of great odds. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Mesereau, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.