Pinder was born on June 6, 1912, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, and played minor league baseball for six seasons in the organizations of the Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, and Washington Senators (1901-1960).

[4] Technician Pinder's official Medal of Honor citation reads: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty on 6 June 1944, near Colleville-sur-Mer, France.

On D-day, Technician 5th Grade Pinder landed on the coast 100 yards off shore under devastating enemy machinegun and artillery fire which caused severe casualties among the boatload.

Refusing to take cover afforded, or to accept medical attention for his wounds, Technician 5th Grade Pinder, though terribly weakened by loss of blood and in fierce pain, on 3 occasions went into the fire-swept surf to salvage communication equipment.

Remaining exposed to heavy enemy fire, growing steadily weaker, he aided in establishing the vital radio communication on the beach.