The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Thomas J. Newcomer (MCSN: 383049), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the Third Battalion, Eighth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 22 June 1944. Unhesitatingly taking command when his squad leader became a casualty, Private Newcomer valiantly led his men against firmly entrenched positions and, despite relentless fire from the Japanese guns, succeeded in annihilating the enemy and capturing their machine gun. Subsequently leading his force as a point for the platoon, he personally killed seven of the enemy, thereby making it possible for the remainder of the company to reach its objective. By his daring initiative and intrepid leadership, Private Newcomer contributed essentially to the success of our vital mission on this strategically important island, and his cool courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.