The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Cavalry) Stephen W. Benkosky (ASN: 0-253113), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the *** Cavalry Group (Mechanized), XII Corps, in action against an armed enemy from 20 to 22 October 1944, in France. On 20 October 1944, Lieutenant Colonel Benkosky led a group of Engineers in the clearing of a mine field that had halted the advance of our forces into the town of Bures, France. Again on 22 October when our forces were held up by direct fire from excellently camouflaged high-velocity guns, Lieutenant Colonel Benkosky crawled ahead for 50 yards while the remainder of the troops took cover in their foxholes. Remaining in his position although still under fire, he located the enemy gun positions and directed the fire of our assault guns on the enemy gun positions. This reduced the enemy fire so effectively that our forces were able to continue the advance. By his utter disregard for his own safety, his gallant movement under direct enemy gun fire to an exposed position in front of our troops, and his skill in immediately locating the enemy gun positions, Lieutenant Colonel Benkosky furnished an admirable example to our officers and men, inspiring them to attack and take not only their immediate objective, but the Bois de Frederick to the east. Lieutenant Colonel Benkosky’s voluntary action beyond and above the call of duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States.