The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Thomas J. Hartman, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Sergeant Hartman distinguished himself while serving as a Squad Leader with Company C, 2d Battalion, 8th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. On 18 November 1969, Sergeant Hartman’s unit was conducting a sweep operation north of Plei Mrong when they were engaged by a large enemy force. Reacting immediately, Sergeant Hartman directed his armored personnel carrier to an advantageous fighting position. He then manned his vehicle’s 50 caliber machine gun and placed a heavy volume of fire on the enemy positions. He continued to fire on the enemy until he was mortally wounded by an enemy B-40 rocket. Sergeant Hartman’s courageous action, professionalism 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.