The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Arnold Lawrence Thomas (ASN: US-56141691), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On that date the platoon of which Private Thomas was a member, was ordered to withdraw after being flanked by the enemy. Private Thomas voluntarily remained behind and fought a delaying action, while his unit withdrew to better defensive positions. He openly exposed himself to intense enemy mortar, grenade, and small arms fire while inflicting heavy enemy casualties. During this act he was fatally wounded by an enemy round. Private Thomas’ heroism enabled his unit to regroup and complete its mission successfully. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Thomas reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.