Captain Thomas O'Brien

Captain Thomas F. O'Brien

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 F. 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 6 June 1944, in France. 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.

Captain Thomas O'Brien on Film

Watch Captain O'Brien on the following combat film dvds by Combat Reels:

1st Infantry Division in Europe Fall 1944

36th Infantry Division Liberation of Western Europe $34.99 DVD Details

104th Infantry Division Liberation of Western Europe $24.99 DVD Details

45th Infantry Division Liberation of Western Europe $19.99 DVD Details

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The Army Signal Corps had the duty of capturing the war in photographs and on film. These men did not carry arms, they carried cameras and many went in harms way to capture footage. We salute these men for a job well done! [ More Info ]