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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 Private First Class George A. Auer (ASN: 35537423), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 10 January 1945, in Belgium. Private First Class Auer advanced with two other men under enemy observation to a position from which he helped knock out an enemy tank which was holding up the advance of two companies. Although he was subjected to a hail of tank and machine gun fire, he succeeded in crippling another tank and forcing a third along with supporting infantrymen to withdraw, thereby allowing the two rifle companies to continue their advance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Auer, 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    117th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 1, 1944
    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 105 (November 23, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class George A. Auer (ASN: 35537423), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 August 1944, in France. Private First Class Auer was serving as an anti-tank gunner with his Regiment which was attacking vigorously, following up a large scale breakthrough in the enemy lines. Hostile artillery fire hit a vehicle on which considerable anti-tank material and ammunition were being carried, setting it ablaze. At the risk of his life, Private First Class Auer left the safety of his covered position and battled the flames, which were causing the ammunition to explode, until the fire was brought under control. The courage, initiative, and unselfish devotion to duty exhibited by Private First Class Auer reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.