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 pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Tadahiko Ono (ASN: OF-104948), United States Army, for gallantry in action. Captain Ono distinguished himself by heroic actions on 17 December 1968, while serving as Commanding Officer of Company D, 65th Engineer Combat Battalion, 25th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. When a re-supply convoy was ambushed by an enemy battalion, Captain Ono was given the task of constructing a by-pass around the disabled vehicles. With complete disregard for his own safety, Captain Ono directed the construction work as ammunition on the burning vehicles exploded all around him. After directing a search for mines along the route, Captain Ono led a counter-attack. His assault out-flanked the surprised enemy, and drove them off. His valorous actions contributed immeasurably to the defeat of the enemy, and the success of the mission. Captain Ono’s personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.


