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 Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Thomas Patrick Sheehan, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding a platoon of Company F, 2d Battalion, 86th Mountain Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, in action against enemy forces on 14 April 1945, in the vicinity of Torre Iussi, Italy. Called forward to take command of the attacking platoon of his company at a critical time, Second Lieutenant Sheehan reorganized his men under heavy enemy fire and continued the advance. Leading his platoon through a heavily mined area covered by intense enemy small arms fire, he dashed forward alone into an enemy-held village. Surprising two German machine gunners, he killed them and then brought his men safely to the objective. Advancing through the village, he directed a house to house battle, routing the Germans from their positions and capturing fourteen prisoners. Pressing the attack, he spotted an enemy machine gun firing into another platoon. Second Lieutenant Sheehan deployed his men in safe positions and advancing alone neutralized this German strongpoint with accurate carbine fire. Later the same day, Second Lieutenant Sheehan continued his assault upon enemy positions, destroying a machine gun position; and although constantly exposed, he fought at close range to clear all the Germans from the objective. Second Lieutenant Sheehan’s courageous actions, brilliant leadership and resourcefulness exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 10th Mountain Division, and the United States Army.