(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 Second Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) George Shaeffer Spohn (ASN: 13081166), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 40th Engineer Combat Regiment (Separate), attached to the 45th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces at Sicily, on 10 July 1943. While moving along the beach, Second Lieutenant Spohn’s platoon was suddenly fired upon by the enemy from a fortified house. Upon finding cover it was revealed that the fortified house was approximately 300 yards inland with a double apron fence which was reported mined, surrounding it. The enemy position had approximately 30 naval and army personnel pined to the ground. Since that position stopped all travel on the beach it was imperative that the fire be nullified so the beachhead could be established. Second Lieutenant Spohn asked for volunteers to go with him through the mined wire and assault the fortified house. He and the single volunteer moved to the flank, through the wire and mines, and assaulted the fortified house from opposite sides. The enemy was driven from the house by weapons fire and hand grenades. There were ten prisoners captured in this encounter. The action nullified the fire power of two 50-caliber machine guns and the enemy’s small arms, at the same time clearing the beach for the assaulting infantry waves and leaving it free for further operation which were of utmost importance at that time. Second Lieutenant Spohn’s coolness, courage and bravery when face by superior enemy fire, and his complete disregard for personal safety are exemplary of high devotion to duty and reflect much credit upon the Army of the United States.

Second Lieutenant Spohn’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 and the United States Army.