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 Captain (Infantry) Thomas Isaac Ledbetter, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations in the Republic of Vietnam, on 19 June 1964. As a Senior Advisor, Captain Ledbetter was accompanying a Vietnamese combat patrol on a search and clear operation when the friendly element engaged a strong hostile force which was defending a heavily fortified position. Although he sustained wounds twice while directing the attack on the enemy, he bravely remained in the lead position to organize and direct the assault against the hostile force. Throughout three vicious enemy attacks, he displayed fortitude, fearlessness, and forceful leadership which rallied the troops and encouraged them to withstand the violence of the enemy charge. Despite the overwhelming onslaught, he continued to lead the troops and personally engaged the enemy with outstanding effectiveness until his ammunition was expended. Captain Ledbetter’s conspicuous gallantry is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military services.