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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas Patrick Gill, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Gill distinguished himself while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company B, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 7 December 1969, Lieutenant Gill led a small reconnaissance patrol from the night location after enemy movement was detected in the area. While walking point, Lieutenant Gill was taken under fire by an enemy force of unknown size. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he maintained his exposed position and began returning fire to cover the movement of his comrades. During the exchange of fire, Lieutenant Gill was mortally wounded, but continued to give fire support to his men. First Lieutenant Gill’s personal bravery, self-sacrifice, and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.