The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Benjamin Franklin Evans, Jr. (ASN: 0-20368), United States Army, for gallantry in action as G-3 (Operations Officer) of the 25th Infantry Division, in action in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, from 22 to 25 January 1943. In order to create close liaison between assault units and an attached company during the advance from ****** to the ***** to insure a complete defense for the night n the evening of 24 January, Lieutenant Colonel Evans, at the risk of death or capture, went forward alone through unknown jungle terrain still occupied by the enemy, to coordinate the plan for the defense. In accomplishing this mission, he made possible the formulation of definite plans for renewing the attack the following morning. During the entire campaign, Lieutenant Colonel Evans’ continuous reconnaissance and accurate reports concerning the disposition of troops and description of terrain over which operations were planned, greatly contributed toward the successful advance to the ****** by 26 January 1943. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Evans, 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.