The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John J. O’Brien (ASN: 0-1012322), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 15 January 1945, in Belgium. First Lieutenant O’Brien with his tank platoon was leading friendly infantry in an attack on a town. During the fighting his tank was knocked out by a mine and First Lieutenant O’Brien quickly mounted another tank and continued forward. With the enemy driven out of the town, he moved toward the next objective. Again his tank was knocked out by a mine. Making his way toward a tank destroyer vehicle, First Lieutenant O’Brien mounted it and, using its radio, directed his tanks, despite the heavy fire, to meet a strong enemy counterattack. Three enemy tanks were destroyed, materially aiding in repulsing the counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant 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.