The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) George Samuel Blanchard (ASN: 0-26737), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 274th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, on 3 March 1945, near Styring Wendel, France. While leading forward elements of his company in attack over wooded hills, Captain Blanchard noted that 200 yards of open terrain had to be crossed under enemy observation from three directions. He led a small party, rather than expose his whole company through two mined fields under severe artillery, mortar, and small arms fire. From buildings on the opposite side he directed rocket shells on the enemy positions and so reduced the hostile forces that his company was able to advance with a minimum of casualties. Captain Blanchard’s gallant leadership and tactical proficiency were responsible for his company’s success.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) George Samuel Blanchard (ASN: 0-26737), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 274th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations, in 1944 and 1945. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Blanchard, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.