The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Corporal [then Lance Corporal] Thomas R. Burnham (MCSN: 1426163), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Fire Team Leader with Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, at Nong Son, Quang Nam Province, Republic of Vietnam on 1 October 1967. While in a defensive position, Corporal Burnham observed a trip flare burning outside the perimeter of his unit. He was directed to lead his fire team to search and secure the area. Assessing the situation, he cautiously deployed his men to carry out the assignment. While slowly maneuvering toward the position, an enemy hand grenade landed in the midst of the fire team. Unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own safety, he shoved a comrade to the ground and dived on the grenade. While lying on the deadly missile, he yelled instructions to his men to take cover. As the moments passed, it became evident that the grenade had malfunctioned, however, the slightest jar could still activate the grenade. Courageously remaining in this precarious position for approximately ten minutes, Corporal Burnham, after considering the consequences, hurled himself into a ditch approximately four feet away. The grenade failed to detonate; however, had it exploded, his fearless action could well have saved the lives of his fellow Marines. By his bold initiative and grave concern for others, Corporal Burnham reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.