The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Specialist Fourth Class Thomas Ray Edwards (ASN: RA-15667162), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 6 June 1968, while serving as Medical Aidman with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Specialist Edwards’ unit was participating in a reconnaissance in force mission when his platoon was suddenly attacked by a heavy concentration of enemy small arms, automatic weapons and anti-tank rocket fire. Observing the lead vehicle receive a direct hit from an enemy rocket, Specialist Edwards, totally disregarding his personal safety, crawled through the intense fire raking the battlefield to aid the wounded members of the crew. After administering first aid to the injured soldiers, Specialist Edwards sprinted 100 meters through the intense hostile fire to administer first aid and to carry him to a medical evacuation point. Specialist Edwards’ unwavering devotion to duty, deep concern for the welfare of his comrades and heroic actions while under hostile fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.