The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Thomas F. Halstead (ASN: RA-14289937), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Korea. On 24 July 1950, near Yongam-ni, Korea, Private First Class Halstead was performing duties as assistant squad leader in Company B. Although seriously wounded during the initial stages of the enemy attack, he declined evacuation and remained with his squad. Throughout the day despite intense pain from theirhis wound and exposure to the sun, he directed machine gun fire on the enemy. At nightfall he withdrew from theirhis position under enemy fire and was evacuated. His devotion to duty was an inspiration to his comrades and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.