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 pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Specialist Fourth Class Tommy R. Grimes (ASN: RA-18693062), United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile force on 9 December 1968 while serving as a machine gunner on an armored cavalry assault vehicle with Troop C, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while Troop C was conducting a routine reconnaissance operation, it was called to aid another friendly unit by recovering their causalities from an area where fighting was still taking place. As the troop came on line and began their recovery operation, the friendly force was suddenly subjected to intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons and antitank grenade fire from well-fortified enemy bunker complex. Reacting instantly, Specialist Grimes directed highly-accurate machine gun fire upon the hostile positions, killing four of the enemy. As the fierce engagement progressed, he observed an armed enemy soldier attempting to conceal himself behind a tree. Disregarding the heavy enemy fusillade, Specialist Grimes dismounted his vehicle, assaulted and captured the enemy soldier. Specialist Four Grimes’ courage and dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.