The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Thomas Hurst (ASN: 36514927), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 318th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 11 March 1945 in Germany. When his battalion was in danger of being surrounded near Zerf, Germany, Private First Class Hurst volunteered to maintain vital communications. After scaling a high ridge under enemy fire, he coordinated attacks and directed artillery fire. In addition, he killed six hostile troops trying to destroy his post. Private First Class Hurst’s courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.