Roy Benavidez was a former US Army Master Sergeant who served with the elite Special Forces' Studies and Observation Group (SOG) during the Vietnam War. Born on August 5, 1935 in Texas, Benavidez dropped out of school at age 15 to work full-time and support his family. His dedication to service led him to switch from the Texas National Guard to Army active duty in 1955.
During his time in the military, Benavidez showed incredible valor and bravery. In 1965, he suffered a life-threatening injury after stepping on a land mine in Vietnam. Despite being told he would never walk again, Benavidez embarked on a self-training regimen and miraculously regained his ability to walk within a year of the incident.
Benavidez's most notable recognition came in 1981 when he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during combat near Lộc Ninh, South Vietnam in May of 1968. His heroic efforts in saving the lives of eight fellow soldiers under intense enemy fire earned him this prestigious honor.
Throughout his life, Benavidez shared his experiences through three autobiographical books, including the acclaimed 'Medal of Honor: A Vietnam Warrior's Story', published in 1995. His storytelling prowess allowed readers to gain insight into the challenges he faced and the resilience that defined his character.
Outside of his military service, Benavidez was a devoted family man. He was married and had three children. Sadly, he passed away in 1998 due to heart failure, leaving behind a legacy of courage and sacrifice.
Roy Benavidez's impact extended beyond his personal experiences. His dedication to service, unwavering bravery, and perseverance in the face of adversity continue to inspire generations of military personnel and civilians alike. He was presented the Medal of Honor by then-president Ronald Reagan, cementing his status as a true war hero.