The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Chief Carpenter] Harold C. Thomas (NSN: 0-71915), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Officer in Charge of Repair ONE on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47), during the operations of U.S. Naval Forces in the action against Japanese Naval Forces off Cape Esperance, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 11 – 12 October 1942. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Thomas, until killed in action, performed his duties without regard for his personal safety. Through his action the damage to the ship was minimized. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.