Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Lance Corporal

    Action Date:

    October 27, 1971

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lance Corporal Stephen R. DiBenedetti (MCSN: 2672853), United States Marine Corps, for heroism as a member of the Industrial Area Guard, Second Force Service Regiment, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina on 27 October 1971. While executing security duties, Lance Corporal DiBenedetti was a passenger in an M-151 vehicle that went out of control, turned over, and crashed into a tree. Upon impact, escaping gasoline was ignited by electrical sparks and Lance Corporal DiBenedetti, his clothing afire, was thrown clear of the burning vehicle and, though in shock, quickly rolled in sand to smother the flames. Realizing the driver was trapped in the burning wreckage, Lance Corporal DiBenedetti, with complete disregard for his own safety and fully aware of the personal danger involved, unhesitatingly ran to the engulfed vehicle in an effort to free the driver. Despite intense heat and receiving additional burns, Lance Corporal DiBenedetti managed to extricate the victim, pulling him a safe distance and covering him with sand to smother his flames. Further, Lance Corporal DiBenedetti ran approximately one mile to the nearest phone to call for emergency assistance. By his prompt and courageous actions in the face of extreme danger, Lance Corporal DiBenedetti undoubtedly saved a fellow Marine’s life; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.