Anthony Clement Mcauliffe
Born: July 2, 1898 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
Headquarters, Third U.S. Army, General Orders No. 14 (January 14, 1945)
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Anthony Clement McAuliffe (0-12263), Brigadier General, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Acting Commander, 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces from 17 to 26 December 1944, at Bastogne, Belgium. During this period General McAuliffe was in command of the 101st Airborne Division during the siege of Bastogne, Belgium, by overwhelming enemy forces. Though the city was completely surrounded by the enemy, the spirit of the defending troops under this officer’s inspiring, gallant leadership never wavered. Their courageous stand is epic. General McAuliffe continuously exposed himself to enemy bombing, strafing, and armored and infantry attacks to personally direct his troops, utterly disregarding his own safety. Brigadier General McAuliffe’s courage, fearless determination and inspiring, heroic leadership 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.
