The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas John Barnes (ASN: 0-1882511), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Executive Officer of Company K, 3d Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Barnes distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Sokkogae, Korea, on 9 July 1953. On that date, Lieutenant Barnes participated in a counterattack to secure a heavily-fortified hill position when the company was suddenly halted and pinned down by intense enemy artillery, mortar, and small-arms fire, which seriously hampered further progress and forced the men to seek cover. Realizing the vulnerability of their position and refusing to take cover, he unhesitatingly left his position and, with utter disregard for his safety, moved to a position approximately fifty yards from an enemy bunker. From this exposed position, he daringly fired several rounds into the enemy bunker, destroying it completely and killing all the occupants. The friendly assault forces were thus inspired and encouraged by Lieutenant Barnes, who, despite enemy fire, moved fearlessly among the men urging them to rout the enemy. Finding the company commander a casualty during the ensuing battle and other members of the company scattered, he assumed command, quickly reorganized the men, and resumed the attack. Dominating the critical situation through sheer force of heroic example, he led the daring assault up the hill where they were again met with enemy mortar, grenade and small-arms fire, making further advance impossible. Concerned for the lives of his men, he calmly ordered them to withdraw to a trench below the crest of the objective, but he remained exposed on high ground until all had gained cover. Then descending and hastily jumping into the trench below, he was hit by an enemy mortar burst that critically wounded him and killed several others. Although partially blinded and seriously wounded in the left leg, he attempted to rise to assist his injured comrades, but collapsed. He refused medical aid and evacuation until all others were treated, and he later succumbed to his wounds. Lieutenant Barnes’ consummate gallantry, inspirational leadership, and courageous actions reflect the highest credit on himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.