The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Benjamin G. Lee (MCSN: 241740), United States Marine Corps, for extremely gallant and intrepid conduct as Control Officer of a 1.1 inch mount, while serving on board the U.S.S. SAN FRANISCO (CA-38), in action against enemy Japanese naval forces in the Solomon Islands Area on 12 and 13 November 1942. After enemy shellfire had put his mount out of action, First Sergeant Lee promptly reorganized and then, with several of his men, proceeded to the spaces below to fight raging fires. Although injured himself, he rendered valuable service in successful damage control and aided in the evacuation of numerous injured personnel. His valor and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.