Silver Star

Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Thomas Roger Keppen, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Commander with Company B, First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam.

On 6 July 1968, Company B was heavily engaged with a large North Vietnamese Army force entrenched in fortified positions near the village of Lai An in Quang Tri Province. Assigned to lead the attack on the hostile force, First Lieutenant Keppen skillfully maneuvered his platoon to within 200 meters of the enemy and immediately came under intense mortar and automatic weapons fire. Disregarding his own safety, he moved throughout the hazardous area encouraging his men and directing their fire. After adjusting supporting artillery fire on the enemy, First Lieutenant Keppen courageously led his men in a determined assault on the North Vietnamese, seizing the objective and forcing the enemy to flee.
Largely due to his presence of mind under fire and superb tactical ability, his platoon accounted for thirty-two North Vietnamese soldiers killed while only three Marines were wounded. By his courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Keppen inspired all who served with him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

Action Date: July 6, 1968
Service: Marine Corps
Rank: First Lieutenant
Company: Company B
Battalion: 1st Battalion
Regiment: 3d Marines
Division: 3d Marine Division (Rein.), FMF

Keppen, Thomas Roger, 1stLt