The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Thomas W. Anderson (ASN: 0-25383), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. During the period 13 – 25 November 1950, when a battalion of the 3d Korean Marine Corps was surrounded and completely cut off by a numerically superior enemy force in the vicinity of Tonyang, Korea, Major Anderson unhesitatingly volunteered to deliver ammunition, rations, and blood plasma as well as to assist in the evacuation of the more seriously wounded. Piloting an unarmed liaison type aircraft, he flew three missions over hazardous terrain and landed on an extremely short airstrip which was continually subjected to withering hostile small arms and mortar fire. As a result of his brave actions, the beleaguered forces received desperately needed supplies and three severely wounded infantrymen were evacuated to safety where timely medical attention was afforded. Major Anderson’s gallantry, determination, and exemplary concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Silver Star to Major (Infantry) Thomas W. Anderson (ASN: 0-25383), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, in action in Korea. On 22 May 1951, the 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry, engaged in a struggle to seize a strategic mountain pass near Sangori, Korea, became critically short of water, rations, and ammunition. Since and overland supply trip would require too much time, the regimental commander urgently requested that a plane be used to fly the necessary rations to the embattled unit. Major Anderson, being advised of the situation, volunteered to perform the vital missions. Although subjected to small arms fire aimed at his unarmed aircraft, jagged mountain tops, approaching darkness and rapidly shifting ground action, he successfully flew four flights; each time accurately pin-pointing the unit to drop the supplies within the troops’ immediate reach. Major Anderson’s vital contribution to the welfare of the beleaguered battalion and the unwavering gallantry which he exhibited reflect high credit upon himself and the military service.