Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Technical Sergeant Benjamin Robert Eastburn (ASN: 39468585), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 104th Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces in Luxembourg, on 29 December 1944. During action near Wiltz, Luxembourg, an attacking platoon of Company C, 104th Infantry was pinned down by intense enemy fire. Sergeant Eastburn assumed command of another platoon and led it forward to the flank of the enemy position. In advance of his men, braving intense fire he fearlessly crawled forward against an opposing machine gun emplacement and hurled a grenade into it, destroying the gun and forcing the crew to surrender. His heroic action permitted the company to advance. The determination and courageous devotion to duty displayed by Technical Sergeant Eastburn exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 26th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Technical Sergeant

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    104th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    26th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 26th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 115 (1945)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Benjamin Robert Eastburn (ASN: 39468585), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 104th Infantry Regiment, 26th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations in 1944 and 1945. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.