Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Company B, 1st Battalion, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division "Trailblazers", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

1945

"For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy in action as Commanding Officer, Company B, 275th Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 February 1945, at Obere Ohligmuhle, France. Captain Pence led one of the platoon's in his company in an attack across six hundred yards of open field under continuous enemy fire. When the attack faltered under devastating fire, he remained upright, encouraging his men to resume the fight. Despite serious wounds, he continued to lead his men in closing with the enemy to silence all their guns and capturing or killing the entire enemy garrison. Captain Pence's gallant 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 70th Infantry Division, and the United States Army."

Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 120 (1945).