The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Thomas Albert Silvear (MCSN: 0-76399), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Sixth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. From the period 21 to 23 December 1966, during Operation Chinook, Captain Silvear distinguished himself by courageously leading his company through three separate attacks by an estimated battalion of Viet Cong forces. Deployed in defensive positions in the Third Battalion’s Tactical Area of Responsibility, his company came under heavy enemy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire from a numerically superior force during the early morning hours of 21 December. Exhibiting exceptional leadership and courage under fire, Captain Silvear unhesitatingly exposed himself to the hostile fire to ensure that his men were properly positioned, and to provide words of encouragement during the attack. Displaying inspiring professionalism and initiative, he directed the fire of his men, maneuvered his forces to repel numerous attacks and efficiently supervised the re-supply of ammunition. By carefully analyzing the surrounding terrain and utilizing his knowledge of tactics and fire support, he skillfully called in effective artillery fire on the Viet Cong positions. Demonstrating outstanding initiative and timely reaction to the hazardous situation, Captain Silvear prepared a bold counter attack plan and despite continuous enemy fire, fearlessly moved to each unit to issue the counter attack order. His sound judgment and gallant efforts in the face of extreme danger contributed significantly to the repulse of the enemy attack. In large measure due to his aggressive leadership and superior employment of his men, the Marines accounted for seventy-five Viet Cong killed, the capture of five wounded enemy and the confiscation of numerous weapons and equipment while sustaining only four casualties to his unit during the three day period. By his inspiring leadership, intrepid fighting spirit and steadfast devotion to duty throughout, Captain Silvear upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.