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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas J. Johnston (ASN: 0-525717), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during the period 11 November 1944 to 16 November 1944, in Germany. When First Lieutenant Johnston, a Platoon Leader, had left his tank to make a foot reconnaissance, a bomb hit the tank, setting it on fire. At great risk to his life, First Lieutenant Johnston ran to the burning tank and extricated one of the crew members. Before he had a chance to return for any of the others, the magazine and fuel exploded, making rescue impossible. Again First Lieutenant Johnston was riding in another tank when it was set on fire by enemy bazooka fire. When he reached shelter, he found some of the tank members were not with him. Not realizing they had taken cover on the opposite side of the tank, First Lieutenant Johnston braved heavy enemy fire and the imminent danger of an explosion from the tank itself to rescue the crew members who he thought were still inside. In this unselfish attempt, First Lieutenant Johnston was mortally wounded. First Lieutenant Johnston’s courage, gallantry, and loyalty to his comrades reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.