The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Thomas H. Garner (MCSN: 857800), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Reconnaissance Company, Headquarters Battalion, Fourth Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on enemy-held Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, 6 March 1945. After his platoon had advanced into an enemy pocket and was pinned down by severe hostile fire from a machine gun in an enclosed position, Corporal Garner attacked the position alone from the flank and, succeeding in reaching the strong point, placed the muzzle of his automatic rifle through the embrasure to destroy the enemy personnel and machine gun. By his courageous action, Corporal Garner enabled his squad to withdraw to a safe position, and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.