Captain Vernon C. Jordan, Distinguished Service Cross: Cleared a House of German Soldiers, One Room at a Time

Editor’s note:  This Veterans Day Voice of OC is publishing a series of plaques honoring some of Orange County’s most decorated veterans. Vernon Jordan was born on June 2, 1921 and died on April 15, 2009.  He also received a Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart.

Vernon C. Jordan, U.S.A.

Citation: Distinguished Service Cross

War: World War II

Vernon Clyde Jordan, Captain, Infantry Reserve (then 1^st Lt.) Company L, 359th Infantry, 90th Division. Awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy on 20 February 1945, near Deisterwald, Germany. After patrols had made unsuccessful attempts to cross open ground and reach a fortified house where defending Germans were holding up the Company’s advance, Lt. Jordan voluntarily advanced alone. He crawled into the clearing, jumped to his feet and dashed through a hail of crossfire to reach the house. There, ignoring the enemy fire centered upon him he crawled up a ladder and made entrance through a second floor window. Boldly fighting from room to room he captured two of the enemy and forced the remaining soldiers from the building. His heroic action enabled the company to advance and take its objective. The courage he displayed and his devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military service.

Orange County Walk of Honor by AMVETS

More about Vernon C. Jordan:

• Obituary  (Press Telegram)
• Voice of OC to Publish Series on Veterans Memorial Plaques

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