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 Major (Cavalry) Thomas John Hall Trapnell (ASN: 0-16782), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 26th Cavalry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against enemy forces while the U.S. Cavalry engaged in rear guard action on 22 December 1941, in the Philippine Islands. During a concentration of enemy fire from tanks and infantry, Major Trapnell remained between the hostile forces and his own troops and set on fire a truck on a bridge somewhere in Launion Province. Then he waited calmly until the bridge had burned before leaving in a scout car to rejoin his troops. Major Trapnell’s intrepid actions, 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.
Born Nov. 23, 1902 in Yonkers, N.Y…. Was an All-American halfback for Army’s football team and was captain of the lacrosse team while at West Point (Class of ’27)… Became a platoon leader in the 11th Cavalry, serving alongside future generals George Patton and Jonathan Wainwright… Participated in perhaps the last American cavalry charge before his capture by the Japanese… Survived the Bataan Death March and the sinking of two hell ships… Also earned two Silver Stars, the Bronze Star with Combat “V,” and the Purple Heart… Commanded the 187th Regimental Combat Team during the Korean War… Led the American military advisory mission in Vietnam prior to the fall of Dien Bien Phu… Held numerous commands, ultimately leading Third Army before retiring as a lieutenant general in 1962… Departed in 2002, and interred at the West Point Cemetery
Born Nov. 23, 1902 in Yonkers, N.Y…. Was an All-American halfback for Army’s football team and was captain of the lacrosse team while at West Point (Class of ’27)… Became a platoon leader in the 11th Cavalry, serving alongside future generals George Patton and Jonathan Wainwright… Participated in perhaps the last American cavalry charge before his capture by the Japanese… Survived the Bataan Death March and the sinking of two hell ships… Also earned two Silver Stars, the Bronze Star with Combat “V,” and the Purple Heart… Commanded the 187th Regimental Combat Team during the Korean War… Led the American military advisory mission in Vietnam prior to the fall of Dien Bien Phu… Held numerous commands, ultimately leading Third Army before retiring as a lieutenant general in 1962… Departed in 2002, and interred at the West Point Cemetery