The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Robert L. Thompson, Jr. (ASN: 0-241746), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, on 17 August 1944. Colonel Thompson, Battalion Commander, *** Field Artillery Battalion, organized and supervised observations posts atop buildings at points directly across the **** River from enemy positions and observation. Disregarding his personal safety, Colonel Thompson remained at the positions during the day, although enemy fire was directed against them. Through his zealous attention to duty in directing artillery fire on key enemy positions, in informing the task force commander of the enemy situation and in assisting in coordinating fire plans, the enemy positions were effectively neutralized at a great saving of casualties among our forces. His courage, exemplary conduct and gallantry in action contributed materially to the successful operations against the enemy, and measurably assisted in forcing the withdrawal of the enemy from, and in relieving the enemy threat against the city of ****. 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.