THE WALL OF FACES

CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Thomas George Blair, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Blair distinguished himself on 24 May 1971 while serving as a Platoon Leader, Company A, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 501st Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile), in Thua Thien Province, Republic of Vietnam. While leading a small patrol, Lieutenant Blair's element came under intense machine gun fire form an entrenched enemy weapons position. Lieutenant Blair immediately moved to the front of the element to direct fire on the enemy position and was then seriously wounded by enemy machine gun fire. Although he was very seriously wounded, Lieutenant Blair exposed himself and directed his element in the assault on the enemy position. Despite continuous automatic weapons fire, Lieutenant Blair repeatedly refused medical treatment and evacuation until is element had successfully silenced the enemy fire. First Lieutenant Blair's gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
See https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/101494

Captain Thomas George Blair, Jr. was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, with Combat Distinguishing Device (V), for his exemplary courage in action. He served as
an Infantry Unit Commander and was assigned to A CO, 1ST BN, 501ST INFANTRY, 101ST ABN DIV.
See http://www.virtualwall.org/db/BlairTG01a.htm

You terminated our first conversation with 'You've got a good memory, Rat!'. We were friends and looked out for each other that year. I said good bye at Arlington in 1971, but have visited you several time since. I do think of you often, Tom. You taught me a lot. Sleep well, sir;

Thank you for your service to our country so long ago sir. Your Silver Star citation attests to your courage and devotion to your fellow soldiers. As long as you are remembered you will remain in our hearts forever.

Coming 50 years; Boozer.
Our sweat and labor for that dying NVA the night before colors my whole reality to this day. I’m hoping to serve together again.