The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry), [then Lieutenant Colonel] Thomas R. Yancey (ASN: 0-42256), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of the 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 23 May 1951 the 15th Infantry had the mission of attacking northeast along a winding mountainous road leading to Habae-jae, Korea. This area was strongly and fiercely defended by a large concentration of enemy troops, which despite heavy casualties, gave ground slowly, and covered its withdrawal with harassing elements and rear guard action. Colonel Yancey continuously and vigorously pressed the attack in order to inflict the maximum number of casualties and permit no regrouping of the enemy forces. Heedless of the personal danger involved, he continually traveled in his vehicle over the narrow treacherous roads, in order to visit the front line units and coordinate the attack. Although exposed to enemy fire and possible ambush, Colonel Yancey fearlessly made personal reconnaissance of the area to formulate plans for further attack and despite adverse flying conditions, took numerous air flights in order to obtain a more favorable view of enemy dispositions and routes of approach. Because of his sound judgment and analytical decisions, the regiment took all objectives with a minimum of casualties while inflicting an untold number on the enemy. The gallantry and astute leadership displayed by Colonel Yancey reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.