The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Corps of Engineers) Thomas Bernard Larkin (ASN: 0-3785), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as an instructor at the 2d Engineer School (France), American Expeditionary Forces, in France, during World War I. Major Larkin made a reconnaissance on the bank of the Marne where he was exposed to machine gun and shell fire and distinguished himself by later work in entering the town several hours before it was occupied by U.S. Infantry. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Larkin, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.