The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Sergeant Thomas R. Coates (ASN: 20721896), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, 31 July 1944. When the advance of his company was stopped by intense enemy machine gun, mortar and artillery fire, First Sergeant Coates, voluntarily and with disregard for heavy concentrations of fire which included that of numerous snipers, moved along the front lines, checking the firing positions and fields of fire of his men, in order to insure maximum results. While so engaged, he was killed by enemy sniper fire. The courageous zeal of First Sergeant Coates, and his dauntless determination that the mission of his unit be accomplished, were immeasurably responsible for the success of the operation. 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 and the United States Army.