The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant John J. O’Reilly (ASN: 36557702), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 17 April 1945, in Germany. When his platoon encountered an enemy roadblock and was unable to proceed further, Technical Sergeant O’Reilly took a squad of men with him and approached the roadblock from the flank. Under his skilled and courageous leadership the squad attacked and quickly took possession of the roadblock. Technical Sergeant O’Reilly and his squad then quickly seized an enemy anti-tank gun which was emplaced nearby. Technical Sergeant O’Reilly’s gallantry and outstanding leadership were responsible for eliminating a powerful enemy obstacle and enabling his unit to advance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant O’Reilly, 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.