The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Robert J. Thomas (ASN: 35005410), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. Sergeant Thomas advanced with his squad in Manila on 23 February 1945 to assault enemy machine gun positions one hundred yards to his front. During the advance, three grenades thrown by the enemy, inflicted three serious wounds on Sergeant Thomas. Refusing medical aid, he advanced boldly and aggressively alone, and succeeded in destroying the two armed Japanese soldiers who threw the grenades. He then returned, led his squad forward, and by skillful fire and movement destroyed the enemy machine gun positions. By displaying extreme bravery and cool determination in the face of the enemy, Sergeant Thomas enabled his squad to destroy the enemy and his company to advance and successfully complete its mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.