The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Howard Cecil Bennett (MCSN: 461636), United States Marine Corps, for heroic conduct while serving with Depot Company A, Branch Number Three, Fourth Base Depot, FIRST Marine Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands, 1 October 1943. When aerial bombs hit and set afire the U.S.S. LST-448 unloading on the beach, Private Bennett assisted in the evacuation of casualties despite the danger from exploding gasoline and ammunition. While aiding in the removal of ammunition from the overheated upper deck to prevent the spread of further explosions, he received shrapnel wounds during a second enemy air attack. His courage, initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Private Bennett and the United States Naval Service.