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 Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Thomas Francis Farrell, Jr. (ASN: 0-24712), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 36th Engineer Combat Regiment (Separate), in action against enemy forces on 10 July 1943 during the Invasion of Sicily. First Lieutenant Farrell was leading a reconnaissance party along the beach setting up landing markers when he came under machine-gun fire from a concrete gun emplacement which had been by-passed by the infantry. Without regard for his own personal safety he assaulted the emplacement, wounding several of the enemy in an exchange of hand grenades and rifle fire. He finally took twelve prisoners. Through this heroic action, Lieutenant Farrell undoubtedly saved the lives of many men on the landing craft who had not yet disembarked. First Lieutenant Farrell’s extraordinary heroism, 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 and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Corps of Engineers)

    Regiment:

    36th Engineer Combat Regiment (Separate)

    Division:

    SEVENTH U.S. Army

    Action Date:

    World War II

    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Thomas Francis Farrell, Jr. (ASN: 0-24712), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 36th Engineer Combat Regiment (Separate), SEVENTH U.S. Army, in action against the enemy at Anzio, Italy, in 1944. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Farrell, 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.