Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    April 7, 1945

    Headquarters, 30th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 124 (May 22, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Esterino A. Benso (ASN: 3689008), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 30th Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized), 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 April 1945, in Germany. When his platoon encountered intense enemy fire, it became expedient to withdraw. Private First Class Benso, returning to his platoon after his vehicle and weapon had been destroyed by enemy fire, saw the enemy bringing up a machine gun to halt the withdrawal. Armed only with a recently captured enemy pistol, Private First Class Benso advanced to within twenty yards of the enemy position and with two shots knocked out the two-man machined gun crew. His courageous actions enabled his platoon to safely withdraw. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Benso, 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.