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 Corporal Benton F. Wilson (MCSN: 1070636), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 June 1951. On that date, Corporal Wilson, a member of a rifle squad, was participating in an attack on Hill 721, strongly defended by a large, well entrenched enemy force. During the attack, the unit was subjected to devastating automatic weapons fire, which resulted in the squad leader and nine men becoming casualties. Unhesitatingly, Corporal Wilson reorganized the remaining members of the squad, and led a charge against the enemy position. Despite the intense fire, his courage so inspired his men that the position was quickly secured and the enemy forced to withdraw in disorder. The gallantry and leadership displayed by Corporal Wilson on this occasion contributed immeasurably to the success of his unit’s mission and reflect great credit on himself and the military service.