The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Thomas C. Helgeson (ASN: 0-1283770), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 20 December 1944, near ****, Belgium. During the initial stage of a battalion attack on that town, Company F, 2d Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, Commanded by Captain Helgeson, suffered heavy casualties. Unmindful of concentrated close-range fire from flak guns, automatic weapons and artillery, he courageously reorganized his command and moved among his men to exhort, advise and encourage them and led them across 400 yards of open terrain protected with barbed wire. While breaking through entanglements they sustained further casualties, including all company officers. Captain Helgeson quickly regrouped his men and led them again in an assault which was stopped by the enemy. Disregarding hostile fire, he reorganized once more and keeping the determination of his men at high pitch by his own exemplary fearlessness, drove the enemy from the objective and held it against all enemy counter-attacks. Throughout the three hours of this action, Captain Helgeson exhibited complete disregard for enemy fire, magnificent bravery and outstanding leadership. The successful accomplishment of the company mission against a numerically superior foe backed by greater fire power was due to his heroism, determination and inspiring conduct in the high traditions of the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.