CHARLIE R. BENNER, then Private First Class, United States Marine Corps Reserve. For extraordinary heroism while serving with a Marine Rifle Platoon of Company L, Third Battalion, First Marines, First Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 12 May 1945. Severely wounded in the leg and lying on a stretcher, Private First Class Benner noticed two enemy riflemen working their way toward his Company Command Post. Painfully leaving his stretcher, he courageously crawled forty yards to throw a hand grenade, killing the advancing enemy and preventing the attack on the Command Post. His personal valor and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Benner resided in Ohio and was a life member of the Legion of Valor. He was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor in October, 2003.