Griffith Earl Benson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Griffith Earl Benson (0-1299934), First Lieutenant, U.S. Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 1st Battalion, 394th Infantry Regiment, 99th Infantry Division, on 16 and 17 December 1944, in Germany. When the enemy launched an attack against his positions, Lieutenant Benson quickly organized a defensive platoon from stragglers and remaining decimated forces. The numerically superior enemy attack was beaten back with severe losses to the enemy. Later the enemy again attacked with support of three tanks. Two of the tanks were knocked out by bazooka fire and the enemy was repulsed with heavy losses. With a scarcity of ammunition and few men present to continue resistance, it was necessary to withdraw and take up new positions. This was accomplished by the quick thinking and outstanding leadership of Lieutenant Benson, which reflects great credit upon himself and the armed forces.