Roy S. Benson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Roy S. Benson (0-62578), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 April 1943 to 21 June 1943, in enemy controlled waters along the Japanese coast line. Lieutenant Commander Benson directed the operations and torpedo fire of his vessel with splendid initiative and expert tactical skill. On one occasion on 28 May 1943, his ship was responsible for severe damaging of an enemy aircraft carrier. Lieutenant Commander Benson contributed greatly to the success of his command in sinking an important amount of Japanese shipping. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Benson brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 324 (March 1944)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roy S. Benson (0-62578), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 3 December 1942 to 22 January 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Sea of Japan. Lieutenant Commander Benson, by his skill and excellent judgment maneuvered his ship, undetected, into an assigned area or laying mines, successfully conducted the mine laying operation and observed the destruction of one 8,400 ton enemy vessel from the mines laid by his submarine. He then carried out aggressive and skillful torpedo attacks resulting in the sinking of 15,271 tons of enemy shipping. Despite enemy counter efforts Lieutenant Commander Benson brought his submarine through without damage to material or injury to personnel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 32 (1943)