Receive Bronze Star Medal Citation
Pfc. Mervin B. Molden, 67th armored regiment and Pfc. Verlin C. Benson, company H. 290th infantry, have been awarded the Bronze Star medal citation for meritorious service against the enemy.
Pfc. Benson’s citation id connection with military operations against the enemy from April 7, 1945 to April 11, reads: “During the operations in the Ruhr area, Pvt Benson, a messenger, performed his multifarious tasks with undaunted determination. Driving long tireless hours through constant enemy shelling and adverse terraine he accomplished his missions with great success in a minimum of time. On several occasions he volunteered to act as guide and scout, fully aware of the grave dangers involved.”
Benson, formerly employed at Amour & Co., entered the service in July, 1943 and has been overseas since last January. He is now in France awaiting shipment to the states. His wife, Frances and two children, George Charles and Eldina Louise, live at 725 S. Rustin Street. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Benson, 2110 Hanford Street.
The citation received by Pfc. Molden for meritorious service in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States in Belgium on January 6, 1945, reads as follows: “After reaching the area where the Second battalion, 67th armored regiment was assembled, Pfc. Molden began issuing gasoline, from his two and one-half ton truck, to the waiting tanks. While doing so, the enemy laid down a heavy artillery barrage in the immediate area. Knowing that the battalion was scheduled to attack in a short while, Pfc. Molden continued issuing the vital fuel. Through his devotion to duty, the planned attack was not delayed.”
Pfc. Molden, a veteran of six major battles, spent 28 months overseas serving in south Africa, England, France, Belgium and Germany. Entering the service in November, 1942. The Sioux Cityan received his training at Fort Knox, Kentucky and was sent overseas in May 1943. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Molden, 1108 W. Second Street. His wife, Irene, who lives with his parents, received the medal. She said that her husband expects to be home in October.
Source: The Sioux City Journal, September 14, 1945 (photo included)
