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 Private First Class Tommy Jones (ASN: 56408527), United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Jones distinguished himself while serving as Assistant Gunner on a machine gun team with the 3d Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, on a search and destroy mission. When Private First Class Jones’ platoon came under intense enemy fire he saw that the machine gun crew to his right was seriously wounded and that two other men attempting to get to the gun had also become casualties. With complete disregard for his own safety, and in the face of withering fire from the enemy, he unhesitatingly moved to the machine gun and put it back in action. In doing so he placed effective fire on the enemy and neutralized two enemy positions before being mortally wounded. Private First Class Jones by his heroism was an inspiration to those who served with him. His valor in close combat against the enemy was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.