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 Captain (Infantry) Thomas Fox O’Brien (ASN: 0-357647), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Cannon Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 11 July 1943, at Gela Beach, Sicily. When his regiment was being savagely attacked by a strong force of enemy armor, causing a critical threat to the invasion effort, Captain O’Brien, with absolute disregard of his personal safety, placed himself in an exposed position five hundred yards from the oncoming tanks to better direct the fire of his Cannon Company. Captain O’Brien, exhibiting magnificent courage in the face of almost certain death, remained at his dangerous, shell-hammered post for a day and a half. His exemplary actions resulted in the destruction of nineteen enemy tanks and wheeled vehicles, and turned a serious threat into a glorious victory. His heroic and fearless behavior under adverse circumstances were an inspiration to his men, and reflect the highest traditions of the Service.

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 Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) Thomas Fox O’Brien (ASN: 0-357647), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Cannon Company, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. Captain O’Brien landed on the coast of France with the initial assault wave. Severe casualties were inflicted on his company when the craft on which they were coming ashore was hit and sunk. Upon reaching the shore, he found that his men were scattered and disorganized. Despite the fact that most of the men were pinned down by extremely heavy enemy fire, Captain O’Brien, disregarding his own personal safety, moved up and down the fire-swept beach shouting orders and giving encouragement to the men. By his valiant leadership, he successfully reorganized his company. When he observed that several tanks were buttoned up and not firing, he immediately worked his way through the heavy enemy fire to them, found their crews and led them up the beach to a point from which they could engage the enemy guns. Captain O’Brien’s inspiring leadership, 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 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.