DAR Americanism Medal recipients must be naturalized U.S. citizens who have shown outstanding qualities of leadership, trustworthiness, service and patriotism and displayed outstanding ability in community affairs.
Following national approval, awards are presented at the state level.
Benjamin, the son of a Lithuanian emigrant, served with the Royal Canadian Navy Reserve on active duty in the North Atlantic during the Second World War. After discharge, he entered the Dale Carnegie Course Sales Force, later emigrating to the U.S. more than 55 years ago.
Benjamin, 92, was described in his nomination as one who demonstrated the drive and motivation to become a successful individual at an early age.
“His talent and skill – and a motivation to inspire others – brought him to the United States. Here he continued to incorporate his talents to help others achieve success through professional development training,” the citation reads.
“His service to the community through his longstanding associations with Kiwanis, the Salvation Army, the American Legion, SCORE and his church are further evidence of his efforts to share the American Dream with others.
Benjamin was nominated by the Lily of the Cahaba DAR chapter, based in Hoover, Ala.
He has made his home in Alabama for the past 50 years, and it was there he became a naturalized citizen in 1967.
