The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Major Benjamin G. Lee (MCSN: 0-17461), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as S-3 of the Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 29 March 1953. When disorganized elements of several companies had succeeded in establishing a precarious hold on a portion of the high ground on a bitterly contested outpost position forward of the main line of resistance, Major Lee unhesitatingly volunteered to assume command of the gallant garrison of Marines and to reorganize and defend the newly won position. Courageously moving across an estimated thousand yards of rugged terrain which was swept by deadly enemy mortar and artillery fire, he reached the hard-pressed unit and, moving among the men to encourage them and assure the integrity of the position, succeeded in reorganizing the forces and in launching a series of attacks upon the enemy who were attempting to overrun the position. In an effort to direct accurate friendly artillery and mortar fire upon the enemy and to rally his forces to the attack, he repeatedly exposed himself to murderous automatic-weapons, mortar and artillery fire and expertly directed his men in a successful assault which firmly established the stalwart defenders upon the objective before he was mortally wounded by an enemy mortar shell. By his inspiring leadership, outstanding tactical ability and exceptional courage, Major Lee was directly instrumental in the accomplishment of the vital mission. His great personal valor reflects the highest credit upon himself and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.