The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas E. Kingery (ASN: 0-66032), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 1 August 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Lieutenant Kingery was with the lead elements of an Infantry unit that was attacking a strategic enemy position on Hill 266, commonly known as “Old Baldy”. Due to the intense hostile small arms and automatic weapons fire the friendly unit was forced to take cover. Realizing the seriousness of the situation and being fully aware of the hazards involved, Lieutenant Kingery, with complete disregard for personal safety, charged forward, fully exposing himself to the enemy observation and fire. With the effective use of grenades and rifle fire, he succeeded in destroying an enemy machine gun emplacement and killing or wounding at least five of the enemy. During that attack, Lieutenant Kingery was wounded, but showing great physical strength he again reorganized his platoon and continued the attack until ordered to withdraw to friendly positions. The courageous leadership and consummate devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Kingery reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.