The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Thomas W. Benson (ASN: 0-2104081), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company [then Company G], 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 20 and 21 December 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On those dates, Lieutenant Benson was leading a reconnaissance patrol, engaged in the mission of reconnoitering disputed territory and locating enemy positions. Fording a swift river in the vicinity, Lieutenant Benson, with two volunteers, climbed a small knoll which they discovered was laced with numerous trenches connecting several deserted bunkers. Proceeding over the crest of the hill and down the reverse slope, they discovered nine more enemy bunkers and were suddenly fired upon by a lone guard. Lieutenant Benson, with complete disregard for personal safety, charged the foe, killing him with a burst of fire from his carbine. Their presence having been discovered, they were immediately caught in a deadly cross fire from numerous enemy automatic weapons. Realizing they were badly outnumbered, he ordered his men to withdraw from the ambush area. As the patrol began to draw back, Lieutenant Benson remained as a rear guard, covering their withdrawal and killing several more of the enemy soldiers with deadly accurate fire. Only after he was sure that his men had escaped the trap and set up a defensive position did he rejoin them. After the patrol had reorganized and was returning to the Main Line of Resistance, they were fired upon once again. Lieutenant Benson immediately adjusted accurate artillery fire upon the pursuing enemy, making it possible for the patrol to return to the friendly lines without suffering further casualties. His courageous and skillful leadership undoubtedly saved the lives of several comrades and enabled the patrol to gather vital information concerning the location of enemy positions. Lieutenant Benson’s superior combat leadership, unfaltering courage and gallantry in action reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.