The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Coxswain Walter Thomas Bennett (NSN: 2872471), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service as a Volunteer Member of the crew of a Higgins Boat used in the evacuation of a group of Marines from a beachhead on Guadalcanal, in the Solomon Islands, on 27 September 1942. Coxswain Bennett, although he knew that his boat was to be maneuvered into an exposed position for the purpose of drawing enemy fire away from the other boats being used to rescue the trapped Marines, courageously volunteered as a member of the crew. The lightly armed boat was made a target for the enemy fire during the evacuation and Coxswain Bennett was wounded just as the operation was completed. His gallant action, taken without regard for his own safety, contributed directly to the highly successful rescue, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.