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Navy Federal Credit Union

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Major (Infantry) Kenneth B. Potter (ASN: 0-296651), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 14 April 1945, at Heroldsberg, Germany. On that date Major Potter led his infantry battalion in a bold offensive against an enemy stronghold. After dashing through small arms fire and capturing six German riflemen, he captured 18 more Germans in hand-to-hand combat. By his aggressive leadership and inspiring courage, he assured seizure of the objective and the capture of 121 more Germans and large quantities of material. Major Potter’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 3d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Major (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 17, 1945
    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 171 (May 22, 1945)

    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 (Infantry) Kenneth B. Potter (ASN: 0-296651), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. In the early afternoon of 17 April 1945, Major Potter ran 250 yards under fierce enemy sniper, machine gun, panzer-faust and 20-mm. flak fire to inspect all heavily mined roadblocks covering the exits from the Stadtpark, Nurnberg, Germany, in order to find a possible route for the tanks whose support was badly needed by the forward elements. He soon discovered a passable exit from the park, ran back to the waiting armor, personally led them through the enemy fire which grew in intensity and barely missed him, and ordered each tank to its zone and directed the fire, thus breaking a stalemate and permitting the attack to continue successfully. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.