Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Colonel (Lieutenant-colonel)

Unit:

3rd Battalion, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division "Timberwolf", U.S. Army (3rd Battalion, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division "Timberwolf Division", U.S. Army)

Citation:

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Gerald C. Kelleher (0-310994), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while Commanding the 3d Battalion, 415th Infantry Regiment, 104th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 29 October 1944, in Holland. When the column was halted by artillery and mortar fire, Lieutenant Colonel Kelleher, with total disregard for his own safety, ran quickly to the head of the column and rallied his men then led the advance by acting as the point. When he observed an enemy patrol of approximately ten men approaching, he ran forward, armed only with a pistol, charged the patrol, and forced them to retreat after capturing two of their number. Later in the day, when his Executive Officer, Major Robert Russi, was wounded, Lieutenant Colonel Kelleher courageously ran to the fallen officer and carried him to the cover of a nearby building, despite enemy fire. The extraordinary heroism and courageous action of Lieutenant Colonel Kelleher contributed in large measure to the success of the drive. His 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 104th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.