The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Thomas J. Riggs, Jr. (ASN: 0-25356), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 81st Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in Belgium, from 17 to 23 December 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Riggs’ gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.