The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class [then Sergeant] Benjamin J. Churco (ASN: ER-32745797), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 August 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date, Sergeant Churco and his platoon had the mission of clearing the ridge line on Hill 1001, thereby opening a supply route for friendly troops. As the platoon advanced, the left flank was suddenly subjected to intense small arms and automatic weapons fire from a well concealed enemy force. Sergeant Churco immediately placed his men in positions, continually exposing himself to hostile fire while directing the remainder of the platoon forward. He then led his men in an assault and successfully repelled the enemy force, inflicting numerous casualties upon them. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Churco on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.