Roy Benavidez

Master Sergeant Raul Perez "Roy" Benavidez was a United States Army Special Forces soldier who distinguished himself through extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War. On May 2, 1968, near Lộc Ninh, South Vietnam, Benavidez engaged in extremely valorous actions to rescue a trapped Special Forces patrol, despite sustaining multiple severe wounds. For his conspicuous gallantry, he was ultimately awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, which was presented to him by President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

Born in Texas, Benavidez enlisted in the Army and went on to serve in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. His service in Vietnam with the highly specialized Green Berets showcased his incredible endurance and dedication to his comrades, as he survived nearly fatal injuries during his legendary rescue mission.

Over the course of his distinguished military career, Benavidez earned numerous decorations, including multiple Purple Hearts and the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor. His legacy remains an inspiration throughout the United States military, particularly within the Special Forces community, as a symbol of self-sacrifice and unwavering devotion to duty.