The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Gerald Carthrae Thomas (MCSN: 0-984/90274), United States Marine Corps, for eminently meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service in a position of great responsibility as Commanding General, FIRST Marine Division, from 20 April 1951 to 10 January 19521. Displaying superb leadership, astute judgment and thorough mastery of military science, General Thomas organized his unit into a cohesive, aggressive command which acquitted itself in a superior manner under rigorous combat conditions. General Thomas assumed command during the initial phase of the enemy’s stupendous spring offensive and, through ingenious application of his professional concepts and rare capacity for prompt forceful decisions in emergency crises when delay would not be countenanced, his command served with notable distinction throughout retrograde to defensive and subsequently offensive tactical operations against a numerically superior fanatical foe. His assiduous exploitation of the capabilities of his command and inspirational guidance enhanced combat effectiveness, esprit de corps and contributed significantly to United Nations first armed campaign for world peace. General Thomas’ exemplary achievements reflect highest credit on himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.