The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Thomas F. Johnson (MCSN: 418629), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Sixth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, on 22 November 1943. With his squad’s ammunition exhausted during a bitter engagement with a fanatic enemy, Private First Class Johnson voluntarily crawled through a concentrated barrage of machine-gun and rifle fire for a distance of forty yards in an effort to replenish the supply and, despite mortal wounds received during the perilous advance, succeeded in returning to his unit with the vital ammunition. By his daring initiative, dauntless perseverance and cool courage in the face of grave danger, Private First Class Johnson contributed materially to the success of the engagement, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.