The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to First Lieutenant Thomas J. Kilcourse (MCSN: 0-513), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism, coolness and excellent judgment in the performance of duty in an engagement near Quilali, Nicaragua on 30 December 1927. Lieutenant Kilcourse, by his great personal courage, skill and high quality of leadership contributed largely to the success of his detachment in this engagement.