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 First Lieutenant (Armor) Neil Francis Brennan (ASN: 0-1019146), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, 735th Tank Battalion, attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Wiltz, Germany, on 12 January 1945. On that date, Lieutenant Brennan commanded a platoon of the 735th Tank Battalion during action to reduce a strong pocket of resistance near Wiltz, Germany. In the course of the attack, infantry elements the tank platoon supported became leaderless, and the tanks were halted by a concentration of mines. Without hesitation, Lieutenant Brennan dismounted from his tank, organized the infantry and fearlessly led an assault against the German positions, inspiring the men by his heroic leadership. Boldly in the lead, armed with a sub-machinegun, he charged the enemy in their foxholes and single-handedly destroyed a machine gun nest. Under Lieutenant Brennan’s determined leadership the objective was attained. First Lieutenant Brennan’s fearless courage, 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.