FORCE RECON Thomson, Robert Brian

John Robertson

Administrator
Staff member
  • SURNAME
Thomson
  • FORENAME
Robert Brian
  • UNIT
3 Recon Bn (3 Force Recon Company,attached) (3 MarDiv)
  • RANK
Corporal
  • NUMBER
2190293
  • AWARD
Silver Star
  • PLACE
South Vietnam 1968
  • ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
KIA - see Roll of Honour
 

ROLL OF HONOUR:

https://www.specialforcesroh.com/index.php?threads/thomson-robert-brian.51667/

CITATION:

Silver Star : The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Robert Brian Thomson (MCSN: 2190293), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Grenadier with Third Force Reconnaissance Company, Third Reconnaissance Battalion, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 16 February 1968, Corporal Thomson was a member of a reconnaissance patrol which ambushed seven North Vietnamese Army soldiers southeast of Con Thien. During the ambush, Corporal Thomson's accurate grenade launcher fire quickly silenced the enemy's return fire. When one of the Marines was wounded, as he attempted to search the ambush site, Corporal Thomson volunteered to reconnoiter the area and killed one enemy soldier concealed in the foliage. While waiting for an extraction helicopter, his unit came under small arms and mortar fire and was pinned down. Delivering effective suppressive fire on a suspected enemy mortar emplacement, he quickly silenced the weapon. As a result of the effectiveness of his fire, the North Vietnamese concentrated their fire on his position. With complete disregard for his own safety, he fearlessly stood up and continued to deliver a heavy volume of fire until he was mortally wounded. His steadfast determination and selfless concern for the welfare of his fellow Marines inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in the subsequent safe extraction of his patrol. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty, Corporal Thomson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
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