The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Tom G. Perkinson (MCSN: 0-16235), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific area on the afternoon of 28 December 1943. Skillfully maneuvering his platoon into a position most advantageous for attack, First Lieutenant Perkinson fearlessly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to direct the assault and leading his gallant command throughout three hours of intense action succeeded in beating back two separate charges by firmly entrenched and numerically superior Japanese forces before he was seriously wounded. First Lieutenant Perkinson’s brilliant leadership in the face of fierce opposition and his indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.