The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Benjamin E. Youmans (ASN: 34011668), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 197th Field Artillery Battalion, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 16 July 1944, in France. Technician Fifth Grade Youmans was assigned to duty with a field artillery unit, serving in the capacity of radio operator with a forward observation party. When the equipment of the forward observer was lost as a result of enemy action, Technician Fifth Grade Youmans voluntarily carried replacements through heavy artillery and mortar fire to the observer. He accomplished this act with full realization as to the hazards of crossing a dangerous terrain, constantly under heavy fire from enemy gun positions. The heroic devotion to duty and great personal courage displayed by Technician Fifth Grade Youmans reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.