The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Sam D. Bennett, Jr. (MCSN: 347868), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Battery B, Special Weapons Battalion, attached to the First Marines, FIRST Marine Division, in combat against enemy Japanese tank forces at the mouth of the Matanikau River, Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 23 October 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety and in the face of heavy Japanese fire, Private Bennett steadfastly remained at his post and with the other members of his battery succeeded in keeping the anti-tank gun in action until the enemy attack was completely repulsed. His skill, tenacity, and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.