William R. Benn, Jr. entered the military service in Pennsylvnia. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a Technical Sergeant in the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. Benn arrived in Great Britain in July 1942. He first saw action in North Africa, where he single-handedly captured 28 German soldiers. After participating in the Sicily invasion, Benn returned to prepare for the Normandy landings. He came ashore with the first assault waves on D-Day and was seriously wounded while leading his platoon in an attack on an enemy gun emplacement overlooking Omaha Beach. Although safely evacuated, he later died of his injuries. Benn posthumously received the Distinguished Service.

Distinguished Service Cross Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Technical Sergeant William R. Benn, Jr. (ASN: 12009565), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 6 June 1944, in France. Technical Sergeant Benn landed on the coast of France with the initial assault waves under heavy enemy small arms, mortar and rocket fire. His platoon leader was seriously wounded as soon as they reached the beach and he immediately assumed command. He led his platoon under heavy enemy fire through an uncharted mine field and up the steep slope toward the enemy positions. The intense enemy fire caused several casualties and threatened to stop the advance. Technical Sergeant Benn, completely disregarding his own safety, advanced alone towards the enemy positions, silencing their guns. Though seriously wounded in the course of this action, Technical Sergeant Benn persisted in his efforts until he had carried out his self-appointed mission. Technical Sergeant Benn's aggressive leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army.
Source of information: www.findagrave.com, https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/21888