The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain Thomas E. Cooney (MCSN: 0-32333), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while commanding a Marine Infantry Company of the Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 November 1950. Captain Cooney was directing the advance of his company in an approach march formation up the mountain road south of Koto-ri, North Korea. As the main body of his company rounded a turn on the tortuous road, the point and main body were taken under extremely heavy and accurate enemy machine gun and automatic weapons fire from cleverly camouflaged positions. Unmindful of his own personal safety, and with complete disregard of a painful hip wound sustained in the initial attack, Captain Cooney moved forward in the face of the heavy fire to observe the enemy dispositions. When he was informed that a tank was supporting the enemy, Captain Cooney personally led the rocket section forward to a position from which the tank was destroyed. While directing the fire of the rocket crew, Captain Cooney was again wounded as a machine gun bullet grazed his forearm. Refusing to be evacuated while his company was under fire, he directed the consolidation of his position, and coordinated the defenses. His dauntless personal bravery and courage served as an unforgettable inspiration to his men. Captain Cooney’s courage, bravery, and intrepidity reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.