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 F. Hooper (ASN: 0-1283591), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 30th Infantry Division, on 13 April 1945, in Germany. Captain Hooper and a platoon of riflemen from his company were accompanying a reconnaissance unit when it encountered a fleeing enemy motor convoy. While the tanks of the reconnaissance unit engaged the enemy, Captain Hooper moved fearlessly about under heavy fire directing the fire of his platoon as well as that of the tanks. The courageous leadership which he exhibited throughout this engagement was an inspiration to the men of his unit and contributed much to the success and destruction of fifteen vehicles. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Hooper, 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.