Thomas F. O’Brien

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas F. O’Brien (0-357647), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Cannon Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. Captain O’Brien landed on the coast of France with the initial assault wave. Severe casualties were inflicted on his company when the craft on which they were coming ashore was hit and sunk. Upon reaching the shore, he found that his men were scattered and disorganized. Despite the fact that most of the men were pinned down by extremely heavy enemy fire, Captain O’Brien, disregarding his own personal safety, moved up and down the fire-swept beach shouting orders and giving encouragement to the men. By his valiant leadership, he successfully reorganized his company. When he observed that several tanks were buttoned up and not firing, he immediately worked his way through the heavy enemy fire to them, found their crews and led them up the beach to a point from which they could engage the enemy guns. Captain O’Brien’s inspiring leadership, 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Thomas F. O’Brien (0-357647), Captain (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Cannon Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 July 1943, at Gela Beach, Sicily. Captain O’Brien’s outstanding leadership, 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.