O’Dell K. Cassidy

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to O’Dell K. Cassidy (13121733), Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with a Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces on 12 June 1944, in France. When his company was pinned down because of heavy enemy rifle and machine gun fire from prepared positions, Sergeant Cassidy, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved to a forward position. From this exposed position, Sergeant Cassidy placed rifle fire on the enemy machine gun emplacement and wounded or killed the entire crew thereby permitting his company to continue the attack. Sergeant Cassidy’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.