The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” (Posthumously) to Private First Class Wayne Roy Thomas (MCSN: 2496694), United States Marine Corps, for heroic achievement in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as an Ammunition Man with Company L, Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division. on 17 June 1969, while Private First Class Thomas’ unit was assaulting an enemy force which had gained fire superiority over the small battalion command post during Operation VIRGINIA RIDGE, the Marines came under a heavy volume of hostile fire. Although the intense enemy activity precluded his normal movement, Private First Class Thomas recognized the vital need for the machine gun ammunition he was carrying, to suppress the enemy fire. Completely disregarding his own safety, he resolutely attempted to reach a machine gun team by crawling under the enemy fire but as he fearlessly maneuvered across the fire-swept terrain, he was mortally wounded by hostile automatic weapons fire. His heroic and bold actions inspired all who observed him and advanced the ammunition to within reach of the machine gun team, thereby contributing to the subsequent defeat of the enemy force and the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. Private First Class Thomas’ courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country. [The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.]