The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Thomas R. DiTomasso, United States Army, for gallantry in action on 3 and 4 October 1993, while serving as a Platoon Leader, Company B, 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment during combat operations in Mogadishu, Somalia. First Lieutenant DiTomasso’s outstanding leadership, sound judgment, and exceptional initiative ensured the successful recovery of the down crew members. He maintained command and control of the crash site, ensured safety of the soldiers and held the defensive perimeters for sixteen hours. First Lieutenant DiTomasso’s actions reflect great credit upon him and the United States Army.