Remembering "Our Joe"

My Mom always referred to her "baby" brother as "our Joe".   I was only 6 & 1/2 years old when "our Joe" was killed in action in Korea, but I remember him as a sweet and gentle man.


The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, has awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, posthumorously, to

                             FIRST LIEUTENANT JOSEPH T. O"DONNELL, USA

for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an armed enemy:

 First Lieutenant O'Donnell, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company A, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in the vicinity of Mundung-ni, Korea on 13 October 1951.  On that date, Company A launched an assault on a strategic hill strongly defended by a determined enemy.  Lieutenant O'Donnell led his platoon until they were halted by a heavy barrage of enemy small arms and mortar fire.  Unhesitatingly, and with complete indifference to the intense fire, Lieutenant O'Donnell placed himself at the head of his platoon and led them in a renewed assault, during which he charged and destroyed an enemy position killing its occupants with his rifle and grenades.   Although wounded by an enemy grenade he continued to lead his men in the attack.  Knocked down by a second grenade, he immediately arose and again continued to direct his men in the assault.  In the platoon's final charge Lieutenant O'Donnell was fatally wounded by mortar fragments.   His bravery and spirited leadership were an inspiration to all who witnessed his actions and contributed immeasurably in the successful completion of the mission.  The courage, tenacity, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant O'Donnell reflect the highest credit upon himself, his unit and the military service.