Navy Federal Credit Union

Daniel Benton was a member of the crew of a B-17 flown by Major Allen Lindberg on a mission over Rabaul, during which Brigadier General Kenneth Walker was flying to observe. It was shot down and all twelve airmen aboard were listed as missing in action. General Walker was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, and Captain Daniel was one of 7 members of the crew awarded a posthumous Silver Star.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Captain (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    64th Bombardment Squadron

    Regiment:

    43d Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    5th Air Force

    Action Date:

    January 5, 1943

    Headquarters, 5th Air Force, General Orders No. 63 (April 6, 1943)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Air Corps) Benton Hayes Daniel, Jr. (ASN: 0-421896), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 64th Bombardment Squadron, 43d Bombardment Group (Heavy), Fifth Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, on 5 January 1943. In the face of extremely heavy anti-aircraft fire and determined opposition by enemy fighters, Captain Daniel participated in an effective daylight bombing attack against shipping in the harbor at Rabaul, New Britain, which resulted in direct hits on nine enemy vessels. During this action his airplane was disabled and forced down by the attack of an overwhelming number of enemy fighters. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Daniel, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.