Navy Federal Credit Union

Before entering military service in World War II, George Poschner was a football star, playing for the University of Georgia when they won the 1943 Rose Bowl. He was so severely wounded in the action that earned him the DSC that he was unconscious for 18 days, and underwent 20 operations including the amputation of both legs and the fingers of his right hand.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    179th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    45th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    January 8, 1945

    Headquarters, SEVENTH U.S. Army, General Orders No. 328 (July 20, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Infantry) George William Poschner, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces near Kohlhutte, France, on 8 January 1945. Lieutenant Poschner, heavy weapons platoon leader, moved forward and manned a heavy machine gun, delivering rapid and accurate fire on the enemy and inflicting numerous casualties. All available ammunition expended, he left his foxhole, picked up a light machine gun, slung the belt over his shoulder and continued forward toward the enemy gun, firing the machine gun as he moved. He continued his fire until he was seriously wounded through the head by an enemy bullet, but he in turn had killed or wounded an estimated 20 Germans. First Lieutenant Poschner’s extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 45th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.