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Sgt Edwin G. Masching was a driver before he enlisted in Chicago, Illinois on 24 August 1942. He was sent overseas in January 1944.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The citation cited: In the vicinity of Laveline-du-Houx, France, on 4 October 1944, in France. On the left of the Second Battalion, the third Battalion contacted the enemy near houses at the western base of Hill 808. Although the Germans laid a sizable concentration of artillery on the Third Battalion area, Companies L and I advanced abreast to the base of Hill 808 into approximately one hundred and fifty entrenched enemy. While Company L momentarily withdrew, Cannon Company poured in a twelve-minute barrage. Immediately Company L and other Third Battalion units advanced and seized Hill 808. As members of Sgt Masching's patrol attempted to move to the rear, enemy fire was concentrated on them. Sergeant Masching rushed toward one of the enemy firing positions firing his tommy gun as he ran, enabling the balance of the patrol to withdraw. Sgt Masching's extraordinary heroism, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

He was killed by small arms fire in his back.

He is remembered at the Saint Marys Cemetery in Emington, Livingston, Illinois.