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 Private Thomas E. Maltby (ASN: 36433332), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 11 June 1944, near ****, France. A superior enemy force was attacking through a section of the unit in which Private Maltby served as an ammunition bearer with a Light Machine Gun Team. Heavy mortar and artillery fire was concentrated on the position and the gunner and assistant gunner were wounded. Private Maltby took over the light machine gun, and laid intense and effective fire on the advancing enemy force. He covered the displacement of his unit to more tenable positions after the enemy had penetrated the area on both flanks. While engaged in this action, Private Maltby was under direct enemy small arms fire, but continued without thought for his personal safety to engage the enemy until he was killed. The gallantry of Private Maltby will live forever in the hearts of the men with whom he fought, and for whom he so willingly and in such a heroic manner gave his life. His conduct in the field of battle was an inspiration to all who knew him and reflects great credit upon himself and the Airborne Forces of the United States Army.