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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), [then Captain] Leroy R. Pond (ASN: 0-370275), United States Army, for gallantry in action in northern France while serving with the 1st Battalion, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division. On 8 July 1944 the enemy attacked in great force with tanks and infantry, completely cutting off Major Pond’s battalion. He quickly organized his battalion for defense, climbed a tree and directed artillery fire until the artillery liaison officer could take over this function. Although under heavy enemy fire he moved from place to place checking the position of these units and encouraging the men to hold until relief arrived. His courage and coolness so inspired the men that although isolated for 38 hours he held the position and repulsed each counterattack. His gallantry, courage and determination under extremely difficult circumstances were outstanding and in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    359th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    90th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    July 4, 1944
    Headquarters, THIRD U.S. Army, General Orders No. 88 (November 11, 1944)

    (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 Captain (Infantry) Leroy Richard Pond (ASN: 0-370275), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Company A, 1st Battalion, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Pretot, France, on 4 July 1944. Captain Pond’s outstanding leadership, 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 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

  • Distinguished Service Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    359th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    90th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 16 – 17, 1944
    Headquarters, THIRD U.S. Army, General Orders No. 10 (January 11, 1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Leroy R. Pond (ASN: 0-370275), United States Army, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 359th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in the vicinity of Lebourg St. Leonard, France, on 16 and 17 August 1944. Lieutenant Colonel Pond’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 90th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.