The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Thomas Henry Copeman (NSN: 0-70009), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as the Commanding Officer of the United States Destroyer U.S.S. GREER (DD-145), attached to a Carrier Task Group supporting the assault forces engaged in the occupation of the Gilbert Islands during the period from 10 to 30 November 1943. His ship assisted in the repulse of determined enemy air attacks upon the Task Group during the evenings of 25 and 226 November. On 28 November 1943, while on detached duty with another destroyer of the same Task Group, his ship was the objective of repeated attacks by enemy torpedo bombers from 1833 to 1843 hours. These attacks were resolutely made. By vigorous offensive fire from his ship two enemy aircraft were certainly destroyed. Three torpedoes were launched at his ship which by skillful maneuvering he evaded. His outstanding courage, skill, and determination, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.