Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

1st Lieutenant

Unit:

Company C, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division "Lucky Seventh", U.S. Army (Company C, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division "Lucky Seventh", U.S. Army)

First Lieutenant James B. Gallagher (Army Serial Number 01011435), Infantry, United States Army, for distinguishing himself by heroic service in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 14 August 1944, in the area of Chartres, France. While acting as tank platoon leader, 1st Lt. Gallagher was given the mission of supporting an infantry attack. In its execution, his platoon was brought under fire by 88-can anti-tank guns. Two of his tanks were lost, and the platoon sergeant and assistant tank commander killed. Despite the severe flanking fire, he ordered the three remaining tanks to continue on the mission. Given material support by the tanks' great fire power, the infantry was able to route the enemy and attain its objective. 1st Lt. Gallagher's tenacity and courageous leadership in the face of withering enemy opposition were in large part responsible for the success of the operation.

Headquarters, 7th Armored Division, General Orders No. 47 (13 September 1944).