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 Charles L. Bennett (ASN: 36979322), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 232d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 22 March 1945 near Stein, Germany. Sergeant Bennett was riding on the lead tank of an advance patrol when the vehicle was struck by a Panzerfaust, throwing him to the ground. Racing to a covered firing position under constant sniper fire, he engaged the retreating enemy bazooka team, killing all of them. He then noticed several snipers harassing the tank crews, shifted his fire, and killed or wounded at least ten of them. Sergeant Bennett’s skill and extreme courage were important factors in the success of his company in this action.