The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Platoon Sergeant Benjamin F. Lukehart (MCSN: 376069), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Acting Platoon Leader of Company B, First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 17 May 1945. Rendered unconscious when his tank struck a large hostile mine well during an assault against a heavily-fortified enemy position forward of our lines and turned partially over on its side, Platoon Sergeant Lukehart regained consciousness to find that the crippled tank had become a vulnerable target. Steadfastly refusing evacuation despite heavy enemy antitank fire, he ably directed the fire and movements of other tanks in his platoon until the objective had been taken. After the successful completion of his platoon’s mission, he skillfully planned and executed the safe evacuation of his crew. By his coolness, determination and leadership, Platoon Sergeant Lukehart upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.