Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    1st Marines

    Division:

    1st Marine Division (Rein.)

    Action Date:

    October 6 – 7, 1952

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Thomas F. Kelsh (MCSN: 0-54669), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Commander of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 6 – 7 October 1952. Quickly moving his platoon forward of the main line of resistance to retake an outpost which had been overrun by enemy forces, Second Lieutenant Kelsh carried out a rapid and thorough reconnaissance of the unfamiliar terrain and an accurate estimate of the situation despite the handicaps of darkness and continuous enemy fire. Aggressively leading his unit in the assault of the position, he maintained expert control of his subordinate groups in the attack and, pressing his advantage as the assault progressed, moved his platoon through heavy mortar fire and neutralized enemy machine guns impeding the attack, successfully recapturing the outpost. Throughout the action, he supervised the evacuation of casualties to insure prompt medical aid for the wounded and actively engaged in grenade battles during the assault. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous leadership and unwavering devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Kelsh served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.