The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Armor) Thomas J. Farrell, III (ASN: 0-5247634), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 13 May 1968, while serving as Platoon Leader with Troop B, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Lieutenant Farrell’s platoon was assigned the mission of extracting an Army of the Republic of Vietnam element which was engaged in combat with a numerically superior enemy force. As he led his armored vehicles toward the battle area, the platoon was suddenly attacked by a well-armed Viet Cong force. Realizing the vital importance of the mission, Lieutenant Farrell personally assaulted the enemy entrenchments, enabling the remainder of the platoon to begin the extraction of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam unit. Disregarding a painful head wound which he received during the attack, Lieutenant Farrell continued to assault the enemy stronghold. Suddenly, he observed that elements of his platoon were being fired upon from point blank range with anti-tank rockets. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Farrell closed on the enemy position, personally killing two of the Viet Cong. Throughout the seven hour battle, he continually exposed himself to the hostile fire as he repeatedly attacked the enemy fortifications. His personal bravery and outstanding leadership were of significant value in the decisive victory over the Viet Cong force. First Lieutenant Farrell’s gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.