Captain Michael E. Benefield

Description:

More Info:

Cpt. Micheal E. Benefield, originally of Dyess, Arkansas, was first commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the West Point Class of 1968. Upon Completion of Field Artilliery Officer Basic School at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, and Infantry Ranger School in Ft. Benning Georgia, he received and overseas assignment to the Republic of Vietnam from Jan. 1969 thru Jan. 1970. While serving as a Forward Observer in 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry directing artillery fire, he was wounded in combat during hostile action. Upon recuperation from his wounds, he compelted his Vietnam assignent. His military awards includes the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, first with Oak Leaf Cluster and 'V' Device, Purple Heart, two Air Medals, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm and many others.

In his civilian career, he received his PhD in Management with Major in Finance from Purdue Universtiy in 1989, and retired as Professor Emeritus at Arkansas Tech University in 2017 after 35 years as an educator. Dr. Benefield's passion in service to his country includes education and mentoring youth in Boys Scouts, and in working in Lions Club International, as well as serving the Veteran's community as Past President of the River Vally Chapter of Military Officers Association and Sect. of the River Valley Veteran's Coalition.