The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Andrew F. Thibadeau (MCSN: 0-15639), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain on January 9-10, 1944. Detecting a wounded rifleman in a direct line of hostile fire while one section of his platoon was advancing in support of assault companies during a fierce battalion attack, First Lieutenant Thibadeau voluntarily risked his life to affect a rescue and fearlessly crawling through the fire lane of a Japanese automatic weapon, pulled the injured Marine to safety. Undeterred by devastating enemy machine gun, sniper and rifle fire throughout the entire attack, he courageously led his group up a steep incline and after attaining an advantageous position, skillfully directed the effective fire of a 37-mm. gun forward of our assault lines enabling rifle companies to capture the ridge and successfully defend it against five counterattacks the following night. First Lieutenant Thibadeau’s great personal bravery, indomitable fighting spirit and unrelenting devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.