The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] Richard Hamilton O’Brien (NSN: 0-123427), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while in command of two PT Boats in action against enemy forces in the Gulf of Eufemia, Italy, on the night of 29 July 1943. Encountering an enemy convoy of two F-lighters escorted by four E-boats, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, O’Brien led his small craft, despite extremely heavy odds, in vigorous, determined combat against the hostile vessels, courageously delivering furious, close-range torpedo and gunfire attacks which resulted in the severe damaging of several enemy ships and the probable sinking of another. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, O’Brien’s fearless leadership and expert tactical skill contributed materially to the serious disruption of the enemy’s supply lines and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Richard Hamilton O’Brien (NSN: 0-123427), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while commanding units of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron FIFTEEN (MTB-15), during action against the enemy along the Italian Coast north of the Island of Elba in October and November 1943. Carrying out daring, offensive operations against enemy coast-wide traffic in this area, Lieutenant O’Brien courageously led small task groups in vigorous night strikes and, effectively using torpedoes on his objectives at close range, scored at least three direct hits which severely damaged or possibly destroyed valuable hostile shipping. By his efficient and aggressive tactics, he contributed materially to the disruption of vital enemy supply lines and provided expert support to our invasion forces. Lieutenant O’Brien’s forceful leadership and inspiring valor throughout this period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.