The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Thomas C. Crist, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of an Underwater Demolition Team (UDT), in the Mariana Islands, 17 to 21 July 1944. With expert and cool direction in the face of enemy rifle, machine gun and mortar fire, he supervised important phases of beach reconnaissance and the placement of high explosive charges, which destroyed enemy underwater obstacles and beach defenses, thus making possible the success of the subsequent assault landing. His extreme courage, outstanding leadership, and conduct, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.