Sergeant Harley E. Thomas, Infantry, 8th Infantry Division, United States Army for gallantry in action.
While moving down a heavily wooded draw, Sergeant Thomas was the lead scout for his platoon. Not until he passed a well camouflaged enemy dugout and its two machine guns commenced firing did he notice its presence. The enemy machine guns halted the advance of the platoon and Sergeant Thomas ran and crawled 100 yards under intense fire to reach a position where he could neutralize the fire.
While moving towards his goal, he observed more enemy soldiers approaching the platoon’s position and killed them with his rifle. He then delivered fire against the enemy machine guns, enabling his platoon to maneuver to a new position without casualties.
His quick thinking and prompt action reflect great credit on himself and the military service.
Quoting Major General W. G. Weaver, Commander of the 8th Infantry Division in Germany, in a letter to his wife, dated 14 February 1945: “I have just awarded the Silver Star to your husband, Sergeant Harley E. Thomas, (then Private). This award was made by virtue of gallantry in action.”
The letter continued: “Permit me to share with you the pride and gratification which this award must bring to you, and to congratulate you on your contribution through your husband to the success of our military operations.”
Harley Thomas was born in Lower Salem, Ohio and entered service from Marietta, Ohio, Washington County.