Benny was born and raised in Knoxville, TN and he graduated from Rule High School in 1965. He moved to Blount County after graduating high school. Benny was drafted into the Army in March, 1967 and he completed basic training at Fort Benning, GA. His job in the Army was as a Hydraulic Repairman on the Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopter. Benny completed his advanced training at Fort Eustis, VA and then he returned to Fort Benning, GA. Benny served in Vietnam in 1967-1968 with the 271st Assault Support Helicopter Company. During the Vietnam War, Benny also served as a door gunner on the CH-47 Chinook. He returned to the United States after serving in Vietnam and received his Honorable Discharge in January, 1969.

After serving in the Army, Benny returned to Blount County. He worked at Fort Sanders Hospital in Knoxville for 9 ½ years. His next job was working for the City of Alcoa for 24 years. Benny retired in 2003 from the City of Alcoa.

Thank you, Benny, for your service in the Army and the Vietnam War! We are very proud of you and glad you are here in Blount County!!! Welcome Home!!!