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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Edward Francis O’Brien, Jr. (NSN: 0-85074), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Torpedo Data Computer Operator, attached to the U.S.S. BANG, during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Area from 29 March to 14 May 1944. Courageous in the face of grave peril, Lieutenant O’Brien rendered invaluable service by his efficiency in operating the torpedo data computer, thereby assisting his Commanding Officer in conducting aggressive attacks against heavily escorted enemy convoys which resulted in the sinking of a substantial amount of Japanese shipping. By his outstanding technical skill and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant O’Brien also assisted his ship in employing successful evasive tactics and his gallant conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Thresher (SS-200)

    Action Date:

    World War II
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 8432 (June 30, 1945 (Navy and Marine Corps Medal Recalled and Replaced by BSM)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander Edward Francis O’Brien, Jr. (NSN: 0-85074), United States Navy, for heroic service on board the U.S.S. THRESHER (SS-200) during action against enemy Japanese forces. On the THIRD, FOURTH, FIFTH, SIXTH and SEVENTH War Patrols when the THRESHER was subjected to twenty attacks in which a total of 160 bombs and depth charges were dropped, Lieutenant Commander O’Brien manned his battle station with outstanding professional skill. Through prompt action and efficient direction, he was responsible for the immediate repair or minimization of all damage sustained, thereby rendering invaluable service to his Commanding Officer by maintaining his vessel in effective fighting condition. The exemplary conduct and valiant devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Commander O’Brien under extremely hazardous circumstances were an inspiration to his associates and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.