The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant] Thomas Slack Baskett (NSN: 0-74924), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Submarine U.S.S. S-44 (SS-155), during the FIRST and SECOND War Patrols of that vessel in enemy Japanese-controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific Area from 24 April to 5 July 1942. Responsible for organizing and training the fire control party to a high degree of combat efficiency, commander Baskett was of invaluable assistance to his commanding officer in making aggressive torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of a converted gunboat and a converted salvage vessel. By his extensive submarine knowledge, his expert ship handling and his ability to make calm and quick decisions during counterattacks, Commander Baskett contributed to the success of each patrol and to the safe return of the ship, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander Thomas Slack Baskett (NSN: 0-74924), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of a United States Submarine in action against enemy Japanese shipping in the Pacific War Area in 1945. Operating in rough seas and confined waters, Commander Baskett conducted aggressive attacks to sink more than 8,000 tons of enemy shipping, thereby contributing materially to the success of the War Patrol. His skillful tactics enabled him to return his ship safe to port, and his leadership, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.