The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class James A. O’Brien (ASN: 31232740), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 April 1945, in Germany. The enemy launched a powerful counterattack against the bridgehead established by the battalion across the Elbe River and occupied the area in which Private First Class O’Brien’s platoon was located. To make contact with his company commander and obtain the plans for a contemplated withdrawal, Private First Class O’Brien advanced stealthily past enemy sentries and positions and through heavy artillery fire, until he located the company command post, and then returned over the same hazardous route to his platoon with the vital plans. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class O’Brien, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.