The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Thomas R. Hughes (ASN: 35115895), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Battalion, 147th Infantry Regiment, in action in the vicinity of the Bonegi River, one-half mile east of Tassafaronga, Guadalcanal on 3 February 1943. Staff Sergeant Hughes was attacking through a coconut plantation under heavy sniper, machine gun and rifle fire when his unit was then barraged by mortar fire. Artillery fire was called for and it fell short, forcing the unit to withdraw. During the withdraw, a fellow unit member was wounded and calling for help. Under both enemy and covering artillery fire, Staff Sergeant Hughes returned to the fallen soldier, bandaging the wounds and then began the process of dragging the soldier to the cover of safety. Under the continued cover of destroyer fire, Staff Sergeant Hughes was able to pick up the wounded soldier and dash to safety. Staff Sergeant Hughes daring on this occasion was an inspiration to his fellow soldiers. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.