The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private John G. Koch (ASN: 36913196), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 49th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 5 March 1945. Private Koch was advancing, dismounted, in support of a tank attack. He pushed forward aggressively, without regard for intense machine gun fire which pinned down men on both sides of him. When his platoon encountered intense direct fire and hand grenade attacks, it was necessary to withdraw to a nearby building. While moving to this position Private Koch was mortally wounded but managed to reach the cover of a ditch. When aid arrived his chief concern was to direct assistance to a wounded officer. Not until he had been assured the officer had been cared for, would he allow himself to be moved. Realizing that silence was imperative, he remained quiet despite the pain of his wounds. His courage and high regard for the welfare of others reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.