The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas E. Bivins (ASN: 0-535260), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 November 1944, in Germany. Second Lieutenant Bivins was the leader of a night patrol assigned the mission of advancing into enemy territory and returning with a prisoner for interrogation purposes. After reaching a point within fifteen yards of the main enemy line, Second Lieutenant Bivins directed the remainder of the patrol to remain as a covering force, taking one man with him. He advanced deeper into enemy territory and succeeded in capturing two enemy prisoners. Second Lieutenant Bivins was directing the stealthy withdrawal of the patrol when suddenly one of the prisoners attempted to escape. In preventing his escape the patrol gave its position away to enemy machine guns. Keeping cool, and displaying highly commendable leadership, Second Lieutenant Bivins led the endangered patrol successfully back to friendly lines without a single casualty. Second Lieutenant Bivin’s gallantry, courage, and presence of mind are worthy of high praise.