Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. Trigger (SS-237), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

September 1943

"For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 3 December 1942 to 22 January 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Sea of Japan. Lieutenant Commander Benson, by his skill and excellent judgment maneuvered his ship, undetected, into an assigned area or laying mines, successfully conducted the mine laying operation and observed the destruction of one 8,400 ton enemy vessel from the mines laid by his submarine. He then carried out aggressive and skillful torpedo attacks resulting in the sinking of 15,271 tons of enemy shipping. Despite enemy counter efforts Lieutenant Commander Benson brought his submarine through without damage to material or injury to personnel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander In Chief Pacific Fleet: Serial 32 (1943) & Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 318

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. Trigger (SS-237), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

August 17th, 1943

"For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 April 1943 to 21 June 1943, in enemy controlled waters along the Japanese coast line. Lieutenant Commander Benson directed the operations and torpedo fire of his vessel with splendid initiative and expert tactical skill. On one occasion on 28 May 1943, his ship was responsible for severe damaging of an enemy aircraft carrier. Lieutenant Commander Benson contributed greatly to the success of his command in sinking an important amount of Japanese shipping. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Benson brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 39 (Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. Trigger (SS-237), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

1943

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters close to the Japanese homeland from 23 September 1942 to 8 November 1942. With great courage and daring, Lieutenant Commander Benson pressed home attacks against enemy forces and, as a result, the TRIGGER sank one freighter of 5,000 tons and damaged 24,100 tons of enemy shipping. Despite enemy counter efforts Lieutenant Commander Benson brought his submarine through without damage to material or injury to personnel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander In Chief Pacific Fleet: Serial 32

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. Trigger (SS-237), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

1943

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area from 13 February 1943 to 12 September 1943. Despite adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant Commander Benson's determination and tenacity enabled him to deliver successful attacks which damaged for sank more than 21,000 tons of enemy shipping. Despite enemy counter efforts Lieutenant Commander Benson brought his submarine through without damage to material or injury to personnel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander In Chief Pacific Fleet: Serial 32 (Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star)