John Brennan was captured by the Japanese at the fall of the Philippine Islands and held as a Prisoner of War.

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John Brennan was captured by the Japanese at the fall of the Philippine Islands and held as a Prisoner of War.

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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Medical Corps) John James Brennan (ASN: 0-380755), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as a Surgeon with the Medical Detachment, 3d Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, in action against enemy forces during the period 22 – 24 January 1942, at Abucay, Hacienda, Bataan, Philippine Islands. Captain Brennan maintained his battalion aid station in operation even though it was repeatedly under heavy artillery fire and dive bombing attacks. Even when shells fell in the immediate vicinity of two officers who had been bombarded by enemy 105s, he administered first aid to save a life. Captain Brennan’s extraordinary heroism, 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 and the United States Army.