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 Technician Fourth Grade Eugene J. Callaghan (ASN: 39045725), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 2d Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Manila, Philippine Islands, on 16 February 1945. While advancing on the Philippine General Hospital, the Second Battalion, 148th Infantry Regiment was halted by intense machine gun and rifle fire from well-concealed enemy positions behind the fortress-like walls of the building. Technician Callaghan, a member of Headquarters Company, volunteered to rout the defenders with his flame thrower. Crossing the highway which separated his unit from the objective, he was twice wounded by a hail of devastating enemy fire which swept the roadway and although temporarily stunned, continued to press toward his goal with gallant determination. Moving along the outer walls of the building, he approached doorways and windows, covered each with a burst of flame, and killed 28 Japanese, thereby reducing the positions which had hindered his battalion’s advance. Although followed by an assault platoon which successfully annihilated the remaining defenders, he refused sorely-needed medical treatment until the building was completely secured. Through his initiative and heroic determination to destroy the enemy, Technician Callaghan made a distinct contribution to the success of his battalion’s mission. His 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, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.