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 Sergeant O’Dell Kirby Cassada (ASN: 13121733), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 12 June 1944. When his company was pinned down because of heavy enemy rifle and machine gun fire from prepared positions, Sergeant Cassada, with complete disregard for his own safety, moved to a forward position. From this exposed position, Sergeant Cassada placed rifle fire on the enemy machine gun emplacement and wounded or killed the entire crew thereby permitting his company to continue the attack. Sergeant Cassada’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, the 101st Airborne Division, and the United States Army.