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 Staff Sergeant Thomas K. Mills (ASN: 36739081), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company M, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 May 1944 in an attack against Cisterna, Italy on his first day in combat. Staff Sergeant Mills took command of his unit when the platoon sergeant was killed. Disregarded enemy shell fire that hit as close as 5 yards from him, he dragged his machine gun to an exposed knoll and engaged 2 enemy machine guns at 150 yards range knocking them both out. He then moved from man to man, establishing security and rendering first aid to the wounded. 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, his unit, and the United States Army.