Gordonn Howard McCoy

Staff Sergeant, U. S. Army

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Headquarters, 82d Airborne Division, General Orders No. 61 (November 30, 1944)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Gordonn H. McCoy (ASN: 18226389), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 325th Glider Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, in action on 26 September 1944, near ****, Holland.
Sergeant McCoy, Squad Leader, set up the defense of a vital ridge which contained the only Observation Post in allied hands. Sergeant McCoy and his squad were placed near a divided point on the ridge where there was very poor observation to the front. When the enemy attacked with a tank, automatic weapons and flame throwers, Sergeant McCoy held his position without regard for his own personal safety. He directed artillery and mortar fire and gave information to the Commanding Officer vital to the successful defense of the company's position until the enemy overran his position with flame throwers. His heroic action and devotion to duty were directly instrumental in saving many lives and frustrating the enemy attack.
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 and the United States Army.

GENERAL ORDERS:
CITATION:
Sergeant Gordonn H. McCoy (ASN: 18226389), United States Army, was captured by German forces during fighting in Holland on or about 26 September 1944, and was held as a Prisoner of War until the end of hostilities in May 1945.