Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Regiment:

    317th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    80th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    December 23, 1944

    Headquarters, 80th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 230 (September 14, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Private First Class Benjamin V. Gainer (ASN: 33497394), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy while serving with Company F, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, on 23 December 1944 in Luxembourg. Near Welscheid, Luxembourg, Private First Class Gainer’s comrade fell 20 yards down a precipice before catching on a tree. At the risk of his life Private First Class Gainer, without hesitation, crawled down the cliff to assist him in getting back to safety. Private First Class Gainer’s conspicuous bravery, disregard for personal safety, and thoughtfulness for his comrades were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.