The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant John Breen, United States Army, for heroism on 3 October 1993, while assigned to the Quick Reaction Force of the United Nations relief effort in Somalia. As the Liaison Officer to the Malaysian Contingent of a United Nations Coalition Force operation to rescue surrounded soldiers of Task Force RANGER and to secure two Blackhawk helicopter crash sites. Under intense enemy fire, he physically led the Malaysian Forces into the objective area and their assigned positions, while directing friendly helicopter fire onto enemy positions. His efforts prevented the destruction of friendly forces and allowed for their safe egress out of enemy territory. First Lieutenant Breen’s actions reflect great credit on him and the United States Army.