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 P. McDonough (ASN: RA-31089588), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Chinampo, Korea, on 19 October 1950. Leading his squad in its attempt to secure high ground positions he was informed by other elements of his company that an enemy force estimated at platoon strength was advancing up the reverse slope of the hill. Private McDonough, without waiting for orders, unhesitatingly dashed to the summit of the hill and opened fire, at close range, into the enemy’s ranks. His accurate fire killed or wounded eight of the enemy and caused the remainder to retreat in complete disorder. After placing his squad in position he observed that the remainder of the platoon was being held up by fire from a well dug in machine gun emplacement. Again unmindful of personal safety he again left his position of comparative safety and stopping a friendly tank, directed its fire on enemy positions killing all of the enemy. Private McDonough’s gallant actions and devotion to duty reflect the greatest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.