The President of the
United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
Charles L. Thomas
Captain, U.S. Army
Citation:
For extraordinary heroism in action on 14 December 1944, near Climbach,
France. While riding in the lead vehicle of a task force organized to
storm and capture the village of Climbach, France, then First
Lieutenant Thomas's armored scout car was subjected to intense enemy
artillery, self-propelled gun, and small arms fire. Although wounded
by the initial burst of hostile fire, Lieutenant Thomas signaled the
remainder of the column to halt and, despite the severity of his
wounds, assisted the crew of the wrecked car in dismounting. Upon
leaving the scant protection which the vehicle afforded, Lieutenant
Thomas was again subjected to a hail of enemy fire which inflicted
multiple gunshot wounds in his chest, legs, and left arm. Despite the
intense pain caused by these wounds, Lieutenant Thomas ordered and
directed the dispersion and emplacement of two antitank guns which in
a few moments were promptly and effectively returning the enemy fire.
Realizing that he could no longer remain in command of the platoon, he
signaled to the platoon commander to join him. Lieutenant Thomas then
thoroughly oriented him on enemy gun dispositions and the general
situation. Only after he was certain that his junior officer was in
full control of the situation did he permit himself to be evacuated.
First Lieutenant Thomas' outstanding heroism were an inpiration to his
men and exemplify the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.
