The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) D. L. Benton, Jr. (ASN: 0-450237), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer, Company C, *** Tank Destroyer Battalion, 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, France, 22 and 23 August 1944. Captain Benton led his company in support of an infantry combat team assigned the mission of seizing high ground west and north of ****, France. While conducting a personal reconnaissance ahead of the advancing infantry, Captain Benton located a strong enemy force to the front. Realizing that the enemy, unless immediately engaged, could offer stiff resistance to the advancing infantry, or escape and set up another line of resistance, Captain Benton promptly maneuvered his tank destroyers to cover all routes of escape open to the enemy force, then engaged the enemy in a fire fight which resulted in the destruction of two enemy tanks, numerous anti-tank and machine guns, and the capture of a large quantity of material. His troops captured 155 Germans, including 10 officers. Captain Benton’s calm and resourceful leadership, and his prompt and daring actions precipitated the collapse of German resistance in this sector. 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.