The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Field Artillery) George T. Bensema (ASN: 0-5420648), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Bensema distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous action on 31 January 1968, while serving as a forward observer with Company D, 1st Battalion (Mechanized), 50th Infantry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), during a combat mission near Binh Tri, Republic of Vietnam. When the third platoon of his unit became pinned down by intense enemy fire and the platoon leader was seriously wounded, Lieutenant Bensema volunteered to go to the aid of the stricken element and to link it up with the rest of the company. In leading the platoon toward the remainder of the company it was again pinned down by fire from an enemy bunker. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Bensema exposed himself to the intense hostile fire as he assaulted the emplacement and threw two hand grenades inside. As he rushed inside the bunker he was wounded by an enemy officer whom he killed with his rifle. Throughout the remainder of the battle, Lieutenant Bensema continued to command the platoon. In addition, he directed artillery and the fire from an armed helicopter on the enemy positions. His gallant action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.