George L. Ponder, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to George L. Ponder, Jr. (35801962), Technical Sergeant, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 10 January 1945. Technical Sergeant Ponder’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.