The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Thomas Walter Loos (ASN: US-56584193), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Loos distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 3 February 1968, while serving as a rifleman with Company B, 2d Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat mission near Hue, Republic of Vietnam. When his unit became heavily engaged with a large enemy force and sustained several casualties, Specialist Loos exposed himself to the hostile fire as he rushed forward through an open area to reach a wounded man lying close to the enemy perimeter. While administering first aid to the injured soldier, Specialist Loos engaged and killed a number of enemy soldiers attempting to rush his position. As he was providing covering fire for the evacuation of he injured soldier, Specialist Loos came under intense hostile fire and was mortally wounded. His gallant action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.