Rufus E. O’Farrell Jr.’s Distinguished Service Cross citation

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to

Second Lieutenant Rufus E. O’Farrell, Jr.

United States Army

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

or extraordinary heroism in action on 10 April 1943, near Fondouk, Tunesia. Lieutenant O’Farrell was leading his platoon across open terrain in the assault on Fondouk Gap. His men were subjected to heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire, but under his leadership they continued the advance until a new concentration pinned them to the ground. Lieutenant O’Farrell was wounded but continued to advance on an machine gun nest and demanded its surrender. When the demand was refused, he fired tracers on the position. He received mortal wounds when his gun became jammed and he exposed himself in order to draw the enemy fire. These gallant actions enabled his flank scouts to destroy the enemy gun and its crew, and his platoon to gain its objective. In spite of his wounds he called his platoon Sergeant, gave him his final instructions for continuing the attack, and refused to permit any of his men to stay behind to aid him. The leadership and courage displayed by Lieutenant O’Farrell were an inspiration to the entire battalion in which he served and reflect the highest Army traditions.