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 Lieutenant Colonel (General Staff Corps), [then Major] George H. Dechow (ASN: 0-24553), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On the night of 8 – 9 September 1950 near Haman, Korea, Lieutenant Colonel Dechow’s battalion was attacked by a numerically superior hostile force. As the enemy penetrated the outer defenses, he contacted the rear command post by telephone and called for artillery fire to within fifty yards of his position. When this failed to halt the onrushing foe, he exposed himself to intense hostile fire and moved throughout the position to coordinate more effectively the movement and fire of his men. Inspiring his men to maximum effort, he conducted a spirited defense that forced the enemy to withdraw. Lieutenant Colonel Dechow’s exemplary courage, military ability and selfless devotion to duty are in keeping with the high traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (General Staff Corps) George H. Dechow (ASN: 0-24553), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. Major DeChow commanded the rear elements of the 1st Battalion in an attack 18 miles into enemy territory near Chindong-ni, Korea, on 2 August 1950. Although constantly exposed to harassing hostile fire, Major DeChow moved among elements of the column directing defense and elimination of many of the enemy. When the column turned around, he led the withdrawal with equal effectiveness and courage; at one point his skillful supervision of the repair of an impassable road greatly facilitated the battalion movement. Major DeChow’s gallant leadership, calm courage under fire and notable tactical ability served as an inspiration to all his men and officers and reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Army.