The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Benjamin Albert Kenison (MCSN: 2098437), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with operations against enemy forces while serving as a squad leader with Company D, First Battalion, Fourth Marines, THIRD Marine Division (Reinforced), Fleet Marine Force, in the Republic of Vietnam on 16 September 1966. During Operation PRAIRIE, the Second Platoon was caught in an ambush. In the initial burst of fire a member of Lance Corporal Kenison’s squad was seriously wounded. Realizing that the wounded Marine could not be left unattended, Lance Corporal Kenison quickly maneuvered his squad into a position from which they could best provide covering fire. Then, with full knowledge of the hazards involved and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he bravely advanced alone by crawling up a steep slope and going forward in the face of withering enemy fire in order to bring his wounded comrade back to safety. Upon reaching the Marine who was receiving fire in an exposed area, Lance Corporal Kenison gallantly attempted to carry him back to safety. At this time both men were hit by an enemy hand grenade and mortally wounded. Lance Corporal Kenison’s fearless courage, inspiring leadership and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.