Donald Pence was recognized for his heroism as a Company Commander on 6 February 1945 at Obere Ohligmuhle, France. Captain Pence led one of his platoonís 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.

Major Pence was a life member and resided in North Carolina.