Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Thomas N. Greene (MCSN: 0-18181), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for gallantry and intrepidity while acting as Forward Observer of the First Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands, from 20 to 23 November 1945. Separated from supporting infantry troops during fierce hostilities on D-Day, First Lieutenant Greene carried on valiantly despite the enemy’s shattering machine-gun and sniper fire for a period of two days and nights. With his Scout Sergeant killed during a bitter action, he dauntlessly continued calling for and spotting Japanese troop concentrations threatening annihilation of depleted friendly assault units. By his daring initiative, his outstanding professional ability and cool and courageous action in the face of grave peril, First Lieutenant Greene contributed Materially to the success of our forces in capturing this vital hostile stronghold and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    10th Marines

    Division:

    2d Marine Division

    Action Date:

    June 23, 1944

    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 6068

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Thomas N. Greene (MCSN: 0-18181), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Artillery Forward Observer, attached to Battery C, First Battalion, Tenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 23 June 1944. Voluntarily accompanying a six-man infantry patrol to a ridge in front of the lines in order to select an observation post for controlling artillery fire and observing hostile activity, First Lieutenant Greene reached the objective in Japanese territory and held it until friendly troops arrived the following day. Gaining and holding the vantage point despite heavy enemy fire, he was able to observe hostile mortar positions firing into the battalion command post and, by his accurate direction of artillery fire, contributed materially to the silencing of the enemy guns and to the success of our forces in carrying out their attack. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Greene and the United States Naval Service.