The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant John L. Benton (ASN: 38131610), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 743d Tank Battalion (Separate), attached to the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. Staff Sergeant Benton landed on the coast of France with the initial assault wave under heavy enemy rifle, machine gun, mortar and artillery fire. When the platoon leader became a casualty, Staff Sergeant Benton immediately assumed command. In order to better direct operations and bring fire on enemy positions, Staff Sergeant Benton completely disregarding his own safety, dismounted from his tank and from this position proceeded to place fire upon the enemy positions. The courage, initiative and leadership exhibited by Staff Sergeant Benton reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces.