UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS---------------- HEADQUARTERS, FLEET MARINE FORCE, PACIFIC--------------------- ---------------------FPO, SAN FRANCISCO 96601

                     
          In the name of the President of the United States, the Commanding  General,  Fleet  Marine  Force,  Pacific  takes  pleasure  in  presenting  the BRONZE STAR MEDAL to

for service as set forth in the following

               CITATION:

                           "For heroic achievement in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces while serving a Crew Chief with Marine Medium  Helicopter Squadron 364  in the Republic of  Vietnam.  On  28  March 1966, Sergeant  THOMAS' aircraft landed in a pick up  under intense hostile fire to effect  the emergency medical evacuation of  four seriously wounded Marines. As  his aircraft  landed, Sergeant THOMAS, observing Marines in  the area were actively engaged  in combat with enemy troops, leaped from the cabin and raced about twenty-five yards through  withering enemy fire across the landing zone to reach  the casualties.  Without regard for  his own  safety, he courageously made repeated  trips to  the area where four casualties awaited evacuation, and  helped carry them to the aircraft.  After all had been embarked, he manned  the guns of the helicopter to provide  suppressive  fires while departing  the dangerous zone. After  reaching a  safe altitude,  he efficiently administered first aid to the woun- ded  passengers.  Sergeant THOMAS'  courage, determination and disregard  for his  own safety  were in keeping  with the highest  traditions of  the United States Naval Service."

Sergeant THOMAS is authorized to wear the Combat "V".

TEMPORARY CITATION