The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Thomas Benton Tighe (MCSN: 0-8973), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as S-3, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 November 1950. With his battalion engaged in supporting an advancing friendly battalion when elements were pinned down by grazing fire from enemy machine guns and small arms, Major Tighe personally took charge of and positioned a section of heavy machine guns, a section of 75-mm. rifles and an 81-mm. mortar forward observation team in front of his own lines to provide maximum fire support for the advancing forces. Moving among the positions under direct hostile fire, he expertly controlled and coordinated a brilliantly executed attack to rout the enemy from his positions and leave many killed or wounded. By his daring and aggressive leadership, superb tactics and inspiring courage in the face of heavy odds, Major Tighe contributed to the successful advance of the convoy and to the completion of the assigned mission. His heroic efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.