The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Benjamin C. Hembree, Jr. (MCSN: 360974), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Eighteenth Marines, SECOND Marine Division during action against enemy Japanese forces at Tarawa, Gilbert Islands on 20 November 1943. With a group of Marines pinned down by withering hostile fire during a fierce engagement with the Japanese on D-Day, Corporal Hembree promptly seized a flame thrower and advanced alone to the vicinity of the dugout. When his weapon failed to operate, he remained steadfast under the enemy’s shattering barrage calmly and skillfully effected repairs then delivered a steady stream of deadly fire against the emplacement. By his daring initiative, his dauntless perseverance and valiant fighting spirit maintained during the bitter action, Corporal Hembree contributed materially to the success of our operation against this vital hostile stronghold and his zealous devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.