The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Benjamin F. Compton (ASN: 0-1303590), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Mortain, France, 9 August 1944. Captain Compton led his heavy machine gun platoon forward to assist a rifle company in securing a strategic crossroads. During the operation, the enemy, realizing the importance of the road junction, shelled the area heavily, inflicting many casualties. Before the rifle company could establish a defense, the enemy launched a violent counterattack to re-take the position. Captain Compton, quickly appraising the situation, immediately took charge of the rifle company in addition to his own machine gun platoon. At great personal risk, he circulated from one unit to another, directing and encouraging the men, despite the violent mortar and artillery bombardment. So effective was his leadership that the troops of his command successfully repulsed the enemy attack. Lieutenant Compton’s courage, initiative and tactical skill strongly influenced the success of his organization, and are in accord with the finest traditions of the military service.