The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Platoon Sergeant Thomas R. McNeil (MCSN: 290184), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, 20 November 1943. Landing on the heavily fortified beachhead against a heavy concentration of hostile machine-gun and mortar fire during fierce hostilities on D-Day, Platoon Sergeant McNeil fearlessly led his men across the fire-swept airstrip in a relentless drive against the enemy, skillfully maintaining control of his men and contact with adjacent units throughout the fierce engagement. Seriously wounded later that same day, he valiantly fought on, dauntlessly continuing to direct the activities of his unit in carrying out further sustained operations against the fanatic Japanese. By his inspiring leadership, his indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage in the face of grave danger, Platoon Sergeant McNeil contributed materially to the success attained by his unit during the initial stages of a bitterly fought campaign and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.