The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Armor), [then Second Lieutenant] Thomas Wilfred Fife (ASN: 0-62388), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 72d Tank Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 in the vicinity of Yongsang, Korea. On that date, Lieutenant Fife, was in command of a platoon of tanks charged with the support of Infantry Elements in the defense of the Yongsang perimeter, the enemy attacked his position with superior numbers and a fanatic determination to penetrate through to the Division Main Supply Route. The enemy attack was successful in routing the friendly elements and inflicting casualties to the extent that the organization and combat effectiveness of the positions was completely disrupted. Realizing the seriousness of the situation Lieutenant Fife disregarded the heavy enemy fire and dismounted from the protective armor of his tank to reorganize the foot elements. After reorganization he remained on the ground and successfully reestablished the positions by controlling both the foot elements and his tanks by means of radio communications. During this same date while engaged in a friendly attack against the enemy, Lieutenant Fife again displayed gallantry by refusing evacuation after being wounded. The leadership, loyalty and gallant actions demonstrated on that day by Lieutenant Fife are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.