The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major General Gerald Carthrae Thomas (MCSN: 0-984/90274), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding General, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near the Yang-gu-Inje Line, Korea, from 22 May to 20 June 1951. Major General Thomas’ division was committed to dislodging fanatical hostile forces from their well-fortified and stubbornly defended positions north of the Yang-gu-Inje Line. After seizing the objective area, it became apparent that its successful defense required further advance in the rugged, mountainous region northward. General Thomas, displaying a superb mastery of military tactics, terrain evaluation, and aggressive, determined spirit, pressed forward and, through a series of skillful division maneuvers, secured vital key terrain features against bitter hostile resistance. To insure maximum utilization of the capabilities of the command, he maintained close personal liaison with the forward element and his presence over extended periods of time and during the peak of bitterest fighting served as a strong, steadying influence and set a lasting example of valor for his officers and men. Constantly vulnerable to hostile fire, he narrowly escaped death on one occasion when the helicopter in which he was riding came under a vicious barrage of mortar and artillery fire. His unflinching courage under fire, inspirational leadership and deep concern for the welfare of his men, contributed to the repeated success achieved by his command. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Major General Thomas on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.