(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Thomas Barton O’Donnell (ASN: 0-416685), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company I, 3d Battalion, 32d Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Attu, Aleutian Islands, Territory of Alaska, from 16 to 26 May 1943. On 16 May 1943, the 3d Battalion was attacking across the West arm of Holtz Bay valley, with the objective the high ground between the two Holtz Bays. Captain O’Donnell moved from squad to squad on his Company’s front lines, under heavy and constant enemy rifle and machine gun fire, and displayed such courage and leadership that his men were inspired to advance in the face of heavy enemy fire. While leading his Company in this attack, Captain O’Donnell was severely wounded in the neck and right shoulder and was evacuated to the Aid Station on a litter. Late on the morning of 19 May, Captain O’Donnell returned and reported to the Battalion Observation Post on the high ground between the Holtz Bay valleys. He was unable to use his right arm and could not wear a pack, He was weak, and the least motion of his right arm or shoulder caused him pain, but nevertheless, he returned to command his company. On 25 May 1943, the company was attacking across the pass which connected Sarana Valley and the east arm of Holtz Bay. Captain O’Donnell was directing his company from an exposed Observation Post and heavy enemy rifle and machine gun fire was being placed on his position. Disregarding the danger to himself, he started to move from his covered position to the front lines to encourage his men in the attack, when he was mortally wounded by an enemy bullet. Captain O’Donnell’s outstanding leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.