The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class David W. Bennett (ASN: 12007124), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Saint Cloud, Algeria, 9 November 1942. During the Oran Offensive, Private Bennett located one of a number of enemy machine guns which were delaying the advance of his company over a hill. On his own initiative, with utter disregard of his own safety, he advanced to a sot near the machine gun emplacement. From this position he opened fire, silencing he machine gun. Before he could regain cover, he was wounded. 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.