First Lieutenant GAETANO R. BARCELLONA, while commanding a tank platoon of the 741st Tank Battalion received the Distinguished Service Cross for his extraordinary heroism on D Day, June 6, 1944 during the invasion of Normandy. Though upon landing, his tank received several hits, he continiued it in operation and fearlessly exposed himself to severe enemy rifle, machine gun and artillery fire in order to select enemy targets and direct the fire of his unit. When his ammunition supply became exhausted, Lieutenant Barcellona, completely disregarding his own safety, dismounted from his tank and moved across the fire-swept beach to secure additional ammunition. He then returned through the heavy enemy fire to his tank and continued to carry on the fight. The valor, aggressiveness and leadership exhibited by Lieutenant Barcellona reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.

Mr. Barcellona joined the Legion of Valor in 1961 and resides in Texas.