Tom G. Perkinson Silver Star citation

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the SILVER STAR MEDAL to

FIRST LIEUTENANT TOM G. PERKINSON, USMCR.,

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

“For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the First Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Southwest Pacific Area on the afternoon of December 28, 1943. Skillfully maneuvering his platoon into a position most advantageous for attack, First Lieutenant Perkinson fearlessly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to direct the assault and, leading his gallant command throughout three hours of intense action, succeeded in beating back two separate charges by firmly entrenched and numerically superior Japanese forces before he was seriously wounded. First Lieutenant Perkinson’s brilliant leadership in the face of fierce opposition and his indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”

For the President,
/s/ James Forrestal

Born: 4 January 1913 in Marietta, Ga…. Retired as colonel… Passed: 29 September 1973… Interred: Marietta City Cemetery in Marietta, Ga.