The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Thomas B. Beck, Sr. (MCSN: 960714), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Flame Thrower Operator in an Assault Rifle Platoon while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, Twenty-Fifth Marines, FOURTH Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 19 February 1945. Upon discovering six of the enemy in a strongly defended cave position, Private First Class Beck daringly assaulted the position in the face of withering hostile fire and, although mortally wounded during the action, succeeded in destroying all of the enemy. His courageous fighting spirit and complete disregard for his own safety reflects the highest credit upon Private First Class Beck and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.