The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Armor) Benjamin J. Riley (ASN: 0-1011260), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 70th Tank Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in July and August 1943. When his tank company encountered a particularly heavy artillery barrage, Lieutenant Riley proceeded forward in his own tank for a distance of three miles to a house from which he could observe the enemy. The accuracy of he information he relayed by radio from this position enabled such effective fire to be placed upon the enemy as to destroy several anti-tank guns and to disperse enemy infantry. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.