CAPT STEVEN LOGAN BENNETT CAPT STEVEN LOGAN BENNETT

 

Captain Steven Bennett and an observer were flying a FAC (Forward Air Controller) mission in the DMZ area of South Vietnam. After attempting to prosecute a large enemy force and being advised that neither tactical air nor artillery could be brought to bear, Captain Bennett attempted to strafe the enemy. His aircraft was hit by a surface to air missile which damaged the starboard engine, landing gear, and cockpit area. When his observer advised that his ejection seat had been damaged and that he could not eject, Captain Bennett decided to attempt to ditch the OV-10 offshore. Bennett did successfully ditch his OV-10 ... successful in the sense that the observer was able to escape the sinking aircraft. Captain Bennett, however, was trapped in the cockpit. Captain Bennett's unparalleled concern for his observer's life and his extraordinary heroism warranted the Medal of Honor. He and Captain Hilliard A. Wilbanks were the only two Forward Air Controllers to receive the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam war. Captain Bennett's body was recovered from the aircraft.

 

A memorial from one who cares, Alan J. Dewitt adewitt423@cs.com  4 Oct 2001

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