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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Brigadier General Anthony Clement McAuliffe (ASN: 0-12263), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding General of Division Artillery, 101st Airborne Division, in action against the enemy in Normandy, France. On 6 June 1944, Brigadier General McAuliffe, without having received formal instruction in parachuting, volunteered to drop with the parachute echelon of the Headquarters Battery of the Division Artillery of the 101st Airborne Division in order to organize his artillery expeditiously. Landing far from the prescribed drop zone, he organized the scattered individuals of his Headquarters and joined with elements of Division Headquarters south of St. Marie du Mont. In conjunction with the latter, he led his artillery against the causeway at Zouppeville and assisted in capturing the town and beach defile against strong enemy resistance. The speedy juncture of airborne and seaborne forces at this point was in large measure due to his leadership. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Brigadier General McAuliffe, 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.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Brigadier General Anthony Clement McAuliffe (ASN: 0-12263), United States Army, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States.

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Division:

    101st Airborne Division

    Action Date:

    December 17 – 26, 1944
    Headquarters, THIRD U.S. Army, General Orders No. 14 (January 14, 1945)

    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 Brigadier General Anthony Clement McAuliffe (ASN: 0-12263), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Acting Commander of the 101st Airborne Division, in action against enemy forces from 17 to 26 December 1944, at Bastogne, Belgium. During this period General McAuliffe was in command of the 101st Airborne Division during the siege of Bastogne, Belgium, by overwhelming enemy forces. Though the city was completely surrounded by the enemy, the spirit of the defending troops under this officer’s inspiring, gallant leadership never wavered. Their courageous stand is epic. General McAuliffe continuously exposed himself to enemy bombing, strafing, and armored and infantry attacks to personally direct his troops, utterly disregarding his own safety. Brigadier General McAuliffe’s courage, fearless determination and inspiring, heroic leadership 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.

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major General

    Action Date:

    December 17 – 27, 1944
    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 36 (1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Anthony Clement McAuliffe (ASN: 0-12263), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during the period 17 December 1944 to 27 December 1944, as Acting Division Commander, 101st Airborne Division, in its epic defense of the city of Bastogne, Belgium. Given the mission of defending this important communication center against the German onslaught in the Ardennes, General McAuliffe displayed the highest qualities of generalship and professional knowledge in the dispositions he made for the defense of the city. His driving energy, unsparing personal attention to duty and forceful leadership were material contributions to the successful accomplishment of the mission of the 101st Airborne Division.

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    General

    Action Date:

    October 20, 1953 – April 30, 1955
    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 25 (June 27, 1956)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Army Distinguished Service Medal to General Anthony Clement McAuliffe (ASN: 0-12263), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Commanding General, Seventh Army, and later as Commander-In-Chief, United States Army Europe, from 20 October 1953 to 30 April 1955. General McAuliffe distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious service in a position of great trust and responsibility. Under his brilliant and aggressive direction, his diversified forces achieved and maintained a peak level of fighting readiness. General McAuliffe effectively developed new combat techniques to meet the demands of the constantly changing international situation. His wide experience and understanding of diplomatic and political implications were of paramount importance in planning and directing the activities of this vital command. His superb leadership and outstanding professional skill were a source of inspiration to all with whom he associated. General McAuliffe’s unwavering loyalty and integrity, and unsurpassed standing among soldiers, reflect the utmost credit upon himself and the military service.