Travis Bennett

Many of us intently watched the war in Iraq as our troops did what it took to get the job done. And as recorded in the Blue Mountain Eagle’s tribute to our troops, there were nearly 100 military personnel with connections to Grant County involved in that effort.

Lt. Cpl. Travis Bennett was just one Marine in the Weapons Co. 3/4, who was traveling with the First Marine Division. His parents, Ed and Penny Bennett of Mt. Vernon, have been proud of their son. But now they have even more reason to proud of Travis.

Ed Bennett and Penny Bennett each recently received the following letter from 1st Lt. Matt Danner:

“Let me first say that this letter is good news, so please don’t get upset over a letter from a Marine who is not your son.

“My name is Matt Danner, and I am your son’s Platoon Commander. I regret that I have not been able to introduce myself before this, but, as you know, events have moved quickly in recent months.

“I am writing to ensure you understand how well your son has performed, and how proud of him you should be (I’m sure you are!).

“In particular, you should know about one particular event. During one battle, near the city of Al-Basra, the unit your son was with was attacked by an enemy force armed with automatic weapons and RPGs. The mortar section halted to fire, and your son went forward to place the aiming strike. Because the area was paved over, there was no way for him to sink the stake and return to the line and safety. He immediately laid down and held the stake by hand. Although still receiving rifle and RPG fire, and unable to return fire because his hands were occupied, he remained in position throughout the action. It was a silly, but magnificently brave thing to do, and I recommended him for a medal to recognize his valor.

“I’ve told you this because Travis, in typical Marine fashion, will probably downplay the entire episode. Again, it was a selfless and heroic deed that enabled his squad to continue fighting, and was directly responsible for a Marine victory in that particular case.

“Please understand how proud I am of him, and how well he has lived up to the title of Marine.

Sincerely, Matt Danner”