The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas W. Kelley (ASN: 0-61240), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, 70th Tank Battalion (Heavy), attached to the 1st Cavalry Division, on 19 September 1950 near Waegwan, Korea. While furnishing fire support to an infantry unit, Lieutenant Kelley’s tank and the lead tank in the column became disabled and immobile by intense enemy anti-tank fire. Although two of his crew had been hit by enemy fire, Lieutenant Kelley remained in his tank and continued to man all operating tank weapons in order to provide protective cover for the evacuation of the lead tank crew. Only when this had been accomplished did Lieutenant Kelley dismount from his tank and lead his own crew to safety. His disregard for his own safety and conspicuous devotion to duty under enemy fire enabled the other tank crew to be safely evacuated with a minimum of casualties. His gallant action provided an inspiring example to his men and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.