The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Ensign Paul B. Benson (NSN: 0-185548), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of the EIGHTH Amphibious Force on 28 January 1944, at sea near Anzio, Italy. Ensign Benson was Executive Officer on a P.T. Boat when surface craft opened fire, struck the chart room and gravely wounded the commander of the vessel. Ensign Benson was also seriously wounded, but despite pain and loss of blood, he took the wheel and piloted the boat out of range of enemy fire. He continued to pilot the boat for almost an hour, brought it alongside another allied vessel to evacuate the wounded, and did not leave his post until replaced by an officer from another P.T. boat. Ensign Benson’s determined courage and skill helped to insure the safety of all personnel aboard the craft. 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 Naval Service.