The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Charles E. Thomann, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Colonel Thomann distinguished himself while serving as Commanding Officer of 2d Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 8 November 1969, elements of 2d Battalion, 8th Infantry came in contact with a large North Vietnamese force near Plei Mrong. During the contact, which lasted almost twelve hours, Colonel Thomann repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire, using his command helicopter to medically evacuate wounded personnel. Colonel Thomann made numerous low-level flights over enemy positions to coordinate the various elements under his command, directing artillery support, helicopter gunships and the movements of the ground troops. Lieutenant Colonel Thomann’s personal bravery, 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.