Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

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.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Action Date:

    September 1962 – June 1964
    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 31 (September 30, 1964)

    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 Legion of Merit to Colonel (Infantry) George H. Dechow (ASN: 0-24553), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from September 1962 to June 1964. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Dechow and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (General Staff Corps)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel (General Staff Corps) George H. Dechow (ASN: 0-24553), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Dechow and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (General Staff Corps)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    27th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    25th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 2, 1950
    Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 190 (September 25, 1950), Amended by G. O. 237 (1950)

    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.